Mayabunder, October 16: Women farmers’ contribution to agriculture and rural development came into focus at a district-level Mahila Kisan Diwas programme in Rampur, North and Middle Andaman, where officials urged women farmers and self-help groups to make greater use of agriculture and allied-sector schemes.
The Department of Agriculture, in association with the Union Territory Agriculture Technology Management Agency (UTATMA), Mayabunder, organised the programme at the Gram Panchayat Hall in Rampur on October 15 as part of Mahila Kisan Diwas 2026.
During the inaugural session, Shirly Thomas, Project Director (ATMA), North and Middle Andaman, highlighted agriculture’s role in rural development, particularly in the lives of rural women. Her remarks placed women’s participation in farming within the broader context of rural livelihoods and development.
C. Ananda Rajan, Up-Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Rampur, acknowledged the department’s decision to hold the programme in the panchayat and urged women farmers to access benefits available under agriculture and allied-sector schemes.
Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer, Mayabunder, called on members of self-help groups (SHGs) to make effective use of available opportunities to advance their empowerment.
The programme focused on recognising women’s contribution to agricultural production and rural development, while drawing attention to the schemes and support available to women farmers and SHG members.
The participation of agriculture officials, panchayat representatives and block-level administration brought together stakeholders involved in agricultural outreach and rural development in Mayabunder.
The event formed part of the observance of Mahila Kisan Diwas 2026, which recognises the role of women in agriculture and rural communities.
