Maharashtra's new bill to empower women farmers with land rights and tech training
Maharashtra is set to introduce a new bill aimed at strengthening the rights of women farmers. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar announced the legislation during the upcoming legislative session. The move comes as part of broader efforts to empower women in agriculture and address long-standing challenges they face in the sector.
The proposed law will focus on ensuring better recognition and support for female farmers, many of whom remain unlisted as landowners in official records. It also follows recent initiatives to boost women's participation in modern farming techniques and agri-businesses.
The bill will require separate statistical records for male and female farmers, a step intended to improve data accuracy and policy planning. Currently, many women farmers are excluded from land ownership documents like the 7/12 record, limiting their access to government schemes and financial support.
To further empower women, the state is expanding training programmes under the 'Namo Drone Didi' scheme. Women will receive instruction in drone operation, with the government pushing for greater use of artificial intelligence in farming. The 'Pune Pattern', which offers a 75% subsidy for drone purchases, may soon be rolled out across Maharashtra.
At least 30% of benefits in agricultural schemes are already reserved for women, with around 1.8 million female farmers benefiting from the PM-Kisan scheme. Additional subsidies for animal husbandry, fisheries, and beekeeping are also under review. Beyond farming, initiatives like 'Lakhpati Didi' and 'SHE Marts' aim to connect women entrepreneurs with global markets, fostering economic independence.
The shift is reflected in education as well—nearly 45% of students in agricultural universities are now girls. This trend highlights the growing role of women as agri-entrepreneurs and adopters of agricultural technology. By 2026, an estimated 5.5 crore women farmers nationwide will benefit from similar state-backed programmes, including Maharashtra's Mahila Shetkari Yojana and schemes in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
The new legislation will provide clearer legal recognition for women farmers and expand their access to resources. With training in modern farming techniques and increased subsidies, the government aims to reduce gender disparities in agriculture.
The bill aligns with broader state and national efforts to integrate women into high-value agricultural roles, ensuring their contributions are both visible and supported.
