Women Empowerment: Role of Krishi Sakhis in Agriculture Development

PROF. POONAM PARIHAR

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"Empowering Women in Agriculture means empowering the entire Nation".

"Women in Agriculture are driving change, ensuring Food Security for generations to come".

Krishi Sakhi is a Community Agriculture care Service Provider (CASP) which will enable the last mile coverage in rural areas where farm-based services for agriculture activities are not available on time or expensive to afford for rural poor. Krishi Sakhi is a rural woman community leader or agricultural extension worker in India who plays a significant role in empowering other women and farmers, particularly in rural areas.The term "Krishi Sakhi" can be translated to "Agricultural Friend" or "Agriculture Companion". The role of a Krishi Sakhi involves a variety of activities, aimed at improving agricultural practices, promoting sustainable farming, and enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.

The Programme was launched on Aug 30, 2023by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare (MoA&FW) and Ministry of Rural Development jointly. First Implementation: It has been rolled out in 12 States in Phase-1: Gujarat, Tanil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Meghalaya. Over 34,000 Krishi Sakhis out of 70,000 have been certified as Para-extension Workers.