This book explores the intricate and critical connection between gender, agriculture, and rural development. It probes into the historical evolution of gender as a concept, with a focus on how feminism has played a role in its emergence and how gender studies have become essential to analyzing social structures, particularly in the context of agrarian economies. The book opens by discussing the historical context of gender, tracing the origins of gender roles and the rise of gender as an analytical framework, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and development. The narrative expands to examine the importance of gender in agrarian societies, where women's contributions are often undervalued, and access to resources is typically unequal. Through global case studies and strategies, the book highlights how women’s empowerment is being advanced in rural settings and how agricultural policies are increasingly recognizing the need to address gender-based inequalities. Key gender- related concepts are explored, such as gender divides, budgeting, and their implications on policy-making and development outcomes. The book also offers a thorough gender analysis, providing readers with the tools to understand the specific challenges that different genders face in rural and agricultural contexts. Moreover, it dives into the connection of gender and technology, emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive approaches in technology adoption and innovation, particularly in agriculture. A significant portion of the book is devoted to gender mainstreaming, focusing on the inclusion of gender perspectives in agricultural policies and extension strategies. The discussion includes examples of how globalization has impacted gender policies and how gender concerns can be integrated into national programs for better inclusion and development outcomes. The empowerment of women is another focal point, where various schemes and policies are analyzed for their effectiveness in improving the socioeconomic status of women, particularly in rural areas.

The book also highlights global best practices, policies, and frameworks that can be adapted to different contexts to promote women’s roles in agriculture and development. Additionally, it looks at the development of women’s entrepreneurship in agriculture, offering insights into the challenges and processes involved in fostering women-led enterprises in the sector. In the final sections, the book turns its focus to specific government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of women, with a detailed look at programs in Uttarakhand. It addresses issues like gender-based violence, examining government efforts to combat these challenges, and reviews the success of the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" program in transforming the lives of girls. The book also sheds light on the vital role of community radio in empowering hill communities in Uttarakhand, showcasing how such platforms can give voice to women and foster meaningful change in remote areas. By blending theory with real-world examples and practices, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding the role of gender in agriculture and development, while offering practical insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.

Dr. Arpita Sharma Kandpal is Assistant Professor in Department of Agricultural Communication, College of Agriculture, GBPUA&T, Pantnagar. Earlier she was Assistant Professor in Directorate of Extension Education, Anand Agriculture University Anand, Gujarat. She obtained her M.Sc. and Ph.D degree from Department of Agricultural Communication, College of Agriculture, GBPUA&T, Pantnagar. Earlier she also completed B.Sc. degree in Home Science from the same University. She got class merit scholarship during her school period, Teaching Assistantship during M.Sc. and UGC-JRF Fellowship in Ph.D. She also received ICSSR Post- Doctoral Fellowship. She has cleared ICAR as well as UGC NET. She got best poster, best oral as well as young scientist award in different conferences. She has attended National as well as International Conferences and presented erudite research papers. She has published review paper, research papers and articles in various reputed Journals and magazines. She was Warden of Golden Jubilee Ph.D student’s hostel. She was also NSS programme Officer and Staff Counsellor of Agricultural Communication Society and PG Society. Her research interest areas are Community Radio, Gender issues and rural development and ICTs. She has published many articles and research papers on community radio in various reputed journals and magazines. She has got best thesis award on Community radio.

1. Historical Perspective of Gender

2. Agrarian Importance of Gender

Block 2: Gender Related Concepts, Analysis, Gender and Technology
3. Gender Related Concepts and Divides
4. Gender Analysis
5. Gender and Technology

Block 3: Gender Mainstreaming and Women Empowerment
6. Gender Mainstreaming
7. Women Empowerment
8. Entrepreneurship Development for Women

Block 4: Government Programme, Policy for Women
9. Women Welfare Schemes in Uttarakhand
10. Gender-Based Violence Against Women (Government Efforts Against Violence)
11. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Transforming Lives of Girls (New Innovations in Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme)
12. Role of Community Radio in Empowering Hill Community in Uttarakhand