United Nations World Food Programme and Embassy of Norway in India focus on women’s challenges and contribution to agrarian economy
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in India and the Embassy of Norway in India have initiated a symposia to shed light on women’s challenges and contribution to India’s agrarian economy, especially from a climate resilience perspective. The aim is to support the Government of India’s efforts to empower women farmers.
Keynote Address by Ambassador of Norway to India
At the first edition of the symposia focusing on Women in Agriculture Value Chain, H.E. May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India, expressed excitement about the collaboration with WFP in India. She mentioned the global partnership between Norway and WFP, highlighting Norway’s active engagement in improving preparedness and climate adaptation among vulnerable communities, including smallholder women farmers.
Comments from WFP Representative and Indian Government Official
Elisabeth Faure, Representative and Country Director for WFP in India, emphasized the timeliness of these discussions amid India’s comprehensive development vision. She acknowledged India’s commitment to empowering women farmers through targeted schemes and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission. Y.R. Meena, Additional Commissioner (Mass Media) in the Department of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, underscored the government’s dedication to doubling farmers’ income by 2030 and its inclusive policies such as the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana.
Expert Insights at the Symposia
The symposia featured interventions and presentations by various experts who delved into women’s diverse roles across the agriculture value chain. Topics ranged from crop production to processing and marketing, addressing issues, challenges, and current initiatives to enhance women’s participation. Speakers included Dr. Ranjitha Puskur from CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform, Mr. Manish Bhatia from the National Gender Resource Center in Agriculture, Ms. Sejal Dand from ANANDI, and rural women.
About the United Nations World Food Programme
The WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, focused on saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity for communities recovering from conflict, disasters, and climate change impacts. Follow their updates on social media platforms like X and X.
FAQ
How to get more information?
For more information, reach out to Parvinder Singh at WFP/New Delhi via telephone at +91 9999241701 or email [email protected].
Conclusion
The Women Farmers Forum initiated by the United Nations World Food Programme and the Embassy of Norway in India aims to address challenges faced by women in agriculture and amplify their contribution to the agrarian economy. Through collaboration and discussions at the symposia, the focus remains on empowering women farmers and advancing towards a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector.
