Adoption of Drudgery-Reducing Agricultural Tools among Rural Women in Vegetable Cultivation in Haryana

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18454362

Rijul Sihag¹, D.P. Malik², Sanjay³, Jatesh Kathpalia⁴, and Rashmi Tyagi⁵ (Department of Agricultural Economics, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana^1,2,3 and Department of Sociology, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana^4,5)

The study examines the nature of work and contribution of women in the cultivation of vegetables and explores the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of drudgery-reducing agricultural tools among rural women engaged in vegetable cultivation. A purposive sample of 60 beneficiaries was selected, and data were gathered through structured interviews. Key variables included respondent profile, education, socio-economic status, and mass media exposure. Statistical tools such as percentages, means, and correlation coefficients were used for analysis. Findings revealed that most respondents were under 30 years of age, with a significant portion from backward or scheduled castes. Educational levels were generally low, and income was modest. Active involvement in vegetable cultivation was observed, particularly in harvesting (56%), seed sowing (47%), and land preparation (44%). The most cultivated vegetables included potato, onion, garlic, cucumber, cauliflower, radish, peas, ladyfinger, and tomato. Knowledge assessment revealed the highest awareness for improved serrated sickle and vegetable trolley (Rank I), followed by gloves and mittens (Rank II), vegetable plucker (Rank III), and so on. The study emphasizes the critical role of rural women in agriculture and highlights the need for targeted training and the dissemination of appropriate tools to reduce their labor burden and enhance productivity.