Poverty and Food Insecurity in India: Exploring Linkages between Ownership Rights to Women Farmers and Food Security

By : Seema Mallik

Page No: 15-23

Abstract
Despite rapid economic growth since the 1990s and agricultural reforms, India continues to be home to the largest number of the poor and the hungry in the world. Food security continues to elude large sections of vulnerable population, particularly in rural India. Different welfare schemes that have been initiated have increased their dependency on the government. As agriculture continues to be the backbone of rural economy employing the largest chunk of the population, despite its contribution to the GDP falling, the paper argues that agriculture and its allied activities need to be strengthened not only to feed millions but to ensure self-reliance of rural India. Further, as there is an increase of women–headed households and the feminization of agriculture, empowerment of women is crucial in reducing poverty and dependency in the rural economy while also ensuring food security. In this regard, the paper argues that ownership rights of land and other resources of production to women will empower them socially and economically, and increase their decision-making powers in family and community. These entitlements will build their capabilities and ensure food security, wherein family gets access to food and nutrition.

Author :
Seema Mallik
Faculty, Department of Political Science, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/PROD.2021.62.01.2