International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Jayasudha J, Asswini A, Kavipriya R, Kishore R, Mathivanan VR, Dharshini E and Divya C

abstract
Gender empowerment can be defined as the difference in the capacity of a man or woman to translate choices into desired actions and outcomes given the opportunity structure within which one operates. The objective of the study is to analyse the gender empowerment of the farm families. The present study was conducted in Ottanchatram and Reddiyarchatram block of Dindigul district. By simple random sampling technique, 15 farm families were selected from each village which constitutes the total of 60 farm families which includes 60 farmers and 60 farm women. The study assessed gender empowerment among farmers and farm women across five dimensions: decision-making, social, economic, political, and legal empowerment. Results indicated that in home management, food preparation decisions were primarily made by women, whereas major financial and agricultural investment decisions, such as land transactions and purchase of farm inputs, were predominantly made by men. However, most critical family and farming decisions, including crop selection, irrigation, and livestock management, were jointly taken by both spouses. Social empowerment indicators revealed moderate autonomy in mobility, independent initiatives, and decision-making despite social pressures, with a majority reporting occasional or frequent freedom from domestic violence. Economic empowerment was reflected in women’s ability to spend on themselves and maintain independent savings. Political empowerment showed that majority of women showing low participation or interest in politics. Legal awareness was high, with more than 85% familiar with key acts such as Child Marriage Restraint, Dowry Prohibition, and Right to Property. Overall, farm families fell in the medium empowerment category. The findings suggest that while legal and economic awareness among rural women is strong, political engagement and independent decision-making in high-value farm operations remain limited. Strengthening participatory approaches and targeted gender sensitization programs can further enhance balanced empowerment in farm households.