Analysis of the Contribution, Competence Levels, and Challenges in Agricultural Practices Faced by Rural Women in Moosa Khatian, Taluka Hyderabad, Sindh

Abstract

The study was conducted in Moosa Khatian, Taluka Hyderabad. Its purpose was to examine the economic contribution, competence levels, and challenges faced by rural women in the area. The sample size consisted of 120 women farmers, randomly selected from a list obtained from the Revenue Department. A survey method was employed, and a questionnaire was developed and implemented to gather the necessary responses. The results revealed that 65% of the women farmers were married, and 70% had formal education. More than 50% of the women farmers had experience in farming practices. The competence levels of the women farmers regarding agricultural activities such as picking, harvesting, weeding, sowing seeds, storage, and dyeing were found to be somewhat satisfactory. In contrast, their competence levels in poultry management—including raising poultry, collecting eggs, cleaning sheds, and managing diseases—were deemed satisfactory. For household management activities such as embroidery, stitching, basket making, handicrafts, wood collection, and house chores, competence levels ranged from satisfactory to good. In livestock management activities like food preparation for domestic animals, milking, whey production, and ghee making, the women farmers demonstrated good skills. However, the women farmers faced various constraints at the farm level, including a lack of communication with experts, insufficient knowledge, poor coordination, technical challenges, and difficulties in decision-making related to farming activities. Several recommendations were made, including training programs for women farmers in collaboration with women extension workers and NGOs. It is essential to provide women farmers with equal opportunities to participate in various field activities, as they play a crucial role in the farming community.