Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill Passed to Recognise Women as Farmers

The Maharashtra Legislative Council has unanimously passed the Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, , according to an Indian Express report, marking a significant policy development for women engaged in agriculture and allied sectors. The Bill was passed by the Legislative Assembly last week before being tabled in the Council by Agriculture Minister Dattatraya Bharne.

The legislation aims to formally recognise women involved in farming as farmers, even when agricultural land is registered in the name of male family members. This recognition is expected to improve access to government schemes, financial assistance and institutional support.

Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill Key Provisions

The legislation seeks to address a long-standing issue faced by women working in agriculture across the state. In many cases, women actively participate in farming activities but are not officially recognised as farmers because land ownership records are typically held by male relatives.

This has restricted their access to several government benefits available to farmers. By providing formal recognition, the Bill aims to bridge this gap and improve inclusion within the agricultural sector.

Woman Farmer Certificate and Government Scheme Benefits

Under the new legislation, eligible women will receive a Woman Farmer Certificate. According to Agriculture Minister Dattatraya Bharne, this certificate will help women access government welfare schemes, financial assistance and other benefits available to farmers.

The recognition may also support access to crop-related benefits, subsidies and other farming-related support programmes. The measure is intended to ensure that women engaged in agricultural activities are recognised within the state's agricultural framework.

Women in Animal Husbandry Fisheries and Allied Activities Included

The scope of the Bill extends beyond traditional farming activities. Women involved in animal husbandry, poultry, fisheries and the collection of minor forest produce will also be covered under the legislation.

This broader definition reflects the diverse contributions women make to the rural economy and agricultural value chain. By including allied sectors, the Bill seeks to extend benefits to a larger section of women involved in livelihood activities linked to agriculture.

Women Farmer Empowerment Fund and Institutional Support

The legislation provides for the creation of several institutions to support women farmers. These include a Women Farmer Empowerment Council, a Women Farmer Empowerment Cell, a State Monitoring Committee and a dedicated database of women farmers.

The Bill also establishes a Maharashtra State Fund for Women Farmers to finance welfare programmes, training initiatives and financial assistance measures. The fund will receive contributions through grants from the Central Government, the state government, donations and other approved sources.

Read More: Maharashtra Ladki Bahin Yojana Beneficiaries Fall by 73 Lakh.

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Conclusion

The Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill represents a major step towards formally recognising the role of women in agriculture and allied sectors. The legislation provides for Woman Farmer Certificates, dedicated support institutions and a specialised welfare fund for women farmers.

It also broadens eligibility to include women working in animal husbandry, poultry, fisheries and forest produce collection. With the Bill now passed by both Houses of the state legislature, women engaged in these activities are set to gain greater access to government support mechanisms and agricultural welfare programmes.

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