Sabour: A one-day workshop aimed at strengthening rice-based agrifood systems for women farmers and scientists was held on June 25, at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour. Organised in collaboration with IRRI-ISARC, Varanasi, and Bihar Agricultural University, the workshop focused on addressing the capacity gaps and specific needs of women in agriculture.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor D. R. Singh emphasised that while agriculture remains a major source of employment in India, women farmers often face challenges due to limited access to training and resources. He highlighted the need for targeted efforts to equip women with modern agricultural knowledge and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Participants received insights on paddy cultivation technologies, crop management, innovations in crop science, and the use of information and communication technology in agriculture. Discussions also addressed the scope for women entrepreneurship and market linkage development in the sector.
Key university officials including Director of Extension Education R. K. Sohane, Director of Research Anil Kumar Singh, Dean of Agriculture Ajay Kumar Sah, and Director of Student Welfare Shweta Shambhavi were present. Scientists from IRRI-ISARC led sessions assessing the current capacities and identifying training needs of the women participants.
The workshop incorporated group activities such as SWOT analysis and expert group discussions to prioritise capacity areas and build strategies for value addition and food security. Feedback was collected from participants to guide future interventions.
Over 25 women farmers from the districts of Banka, Munger, Khagaria, Purnia and Bhagalpur attended the session, underscoring a growing interest in inclusive agricultural development.
