International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Preeti Tetarwal, OP Sharma and Hiral M Patel

abstract
All six talukas of Valsad district were covered under the present study. Two villages from each selected taluka and ten members from each village were selected randomly. Thus, total 120 respondent rural women were selected. Major problems faced by respondent rural women were “Involvement of rural women in decision making process is ignorant due to male dominant society”, “Social taboos, superstitions, traditions and customs hinder involvement of rural women in decision making activities”, “Stereotyped gender roles discourages rural women in involvement of decision making activities”, “Lack of desired cooperation from family members in the involvement of decision making activities ”, and “No or low income is an obstacle in involvement of rural women in decision making activities”. Suggestions to overcome the problems as perceived by rural women were “All the myths should be eliminated by bringing awareness which hinders the involvement of rural women in decision making activities”, “Desirable cooperation of the family members should be provided in involvement of rural women in decision making activities”, “Concept of gender equity should be encouraged in the society for ensuring equal opportunities for rural women”, “Desirable support of the family members should be there for rural women in involvement of farm and home activities” and “Rural women should actively be involved in income generating activities”.