eChapters

Abstract

84 per cent of the Indian rural women livelihood depends on agriculture. It is estimated that 52-75 per cent of the Indian women engaged in agriculture are illiterate. Prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women ranges between 50%-90%. From these facts it infers that ghost of food and nutritional security haunts the rural women health and prosperity. Female participation in the economic activities also determines the sex ratio because the work determines the worth in the society. It has been observed that in those families where women participate in economic activities, this problem is not severe as compared to those families which do not participate in economic activities. Diverse areas of entrepreneurship exists in rural India for women empowerment. This potential can be realized through policy and infrastructure support from the government and by strengthening proactive synergies among various farm and non-farm sectors activities. Although we are proud of the Indian women in the global arena yet we have peer into the atrocities against them in the name of female foeticide, gender inequality, sexual harassment, dowry system and many more evils with promotion of involvement in socio-economic enterprises, if rural transformation is to be achieved.

Woman is an incarnation of ‘Shakti’the Goddess of Power. If she is bestowed with education, world’s strength will double. Let the campaign of ‘Kanya Kelavni’ be spread in every home; let the lamp of educating daughters be lit up in every heart across the regions and religions of the world.

Abstract

Globalization defines a new process of economic integration which is fuelled by neoliberal ideals claiming that an unregulated market economy maximizes economic efficiency and growth. Concept of equability and women empowerment provides durable strength and sustainable development to the programs aimed at promotion of commerce and trade through globalization. The post 2015 Development Agenda have not done much to address the large inequalities and discrimination against women. Global initiatives designed to benefit the daily lives of women and girls not being implemented effectively. This is especially for decision making and financial systems. The right to women needs to be ensured in order: to participate in the elaboration and implementation of development planning at all levels, to have access to adequate health care facilities, including information, counselling and services in family planning, to benefit directly from social security programmes, to obtain all types of training and education, formal and informal. All forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere must be ended. Out of the seventeen sustainable development goals (SDGs), not even the single one will be achieved without including women and girls as equal partners. All countries hold the same responsibility to ensure the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development within their own borders, and to support other countries in achieving the SDGs which includes reaffirming and contributing to the fulfilment of gender equality. Women and girls have to be equal partners in sustainable development.

Women hold up half the sky’ according to Chinese saying. This is true with the Indian scenario as well, since women make up half the country’s population. The rural women in India constitutes nearly 77.00 per cent of the total female population. About 79.00 per cent of rural women workers are involved in agriculture related pursuits as cultivators and labourers. Farm & home are integral parts in the rural society in India and the ‘house wifes’ in the farmstead often plays multiple roles as producer, entrepreneur, workers, consumers, and homemaker. Women are more sensitive than men to the extremes of poverty and its consequences.

Abstract

Gender equity is more pronounced in livestock sector where more than 70% participation is from women side as compared to 33% in agricultural farming. About 75 million women are engaged in livestock sector. In India, livestock production is largely in the hands of women. In fact animal husbandry is becoming feminized. At present about 22% of milk and 2% percent of meat is processed into value-added products for trade while in developed countries it is above 90% and 60%, respectively. Traditional dairy products not only have established market in India but also great export potential because of strong presence of Indian diaspora in many part of the world. Value addition to dairy foods would provide health benefits to the consumers and improve the scale of economy in the dairy industry. Nearly half of the milk produced in India (50-55%) is utilized for the manufacture of value-added milk products but only 22% of the total milk produced is processed by the organized dairy sector. Conversion of surplus milk into indigenous milk products in and around production areas is least expensive and more profitable. Most of the animal farming activities such as cleaning of barn, washing of animals and hygienic maintenance, fodder collection, feeding, watering, and health care, management, milking, collection of dung for fertilizer and fuel, care of sick, pregnant and lactating animals, milking, household-level processing and value addition (ghee, curd, khoa, lassi and desi butter-making) are undertaken by women. However adoption of value-added livestock products as an entrepreneurship is scarce activity because of lack of training and financial liberties.

Abstract

Women make up almost half of the agricultural labour force in developing countries (43 per cent according to UN Women data). Empowerment of women is central to achieving the objective of inclusive, equitable and sustainable development. Between the period 2007-08 and 2009-10, the share of person-days in casual employment in MANREGS to the total person-days in all economic activities has also increased. The increase was marginal for male workers but significant for female workers. This again confirms that female workers have been the largest beneficiaries of MANREGS projects. The share of female participation in these public works is more than the share of their male counterparts. The survey shows that women comprise only 13.76% of the total entrepreneurs, i.e., 8.05 million out of the 58.5 million entrepreneurs. Among the states, the largest share in number of establishments under women entrepreneurship is of Tamil Nadu (13.51%) followed by Kerala (11.35%), Andhra Pradesh (10.56%), West Bengal (10.33%) and Maharashtra (8.25%). Average employment per establishment for women owned establishments is 1.67. The main challenges that women face in business are educational and work background, balancing their time share between work and family, problems of raising start-up capital, difficulty in borrowing fund, thought-cut completions endangered existence of small companies, problems of availing raw- materials access to export market without intermediaries, as well as an overall psychological barrier on the part of banks, suppliers, and clients alike. Govt of India and different bodies such as NGOs, voluntary organizations, self-help groups, institutions and individual enterprises from rural and urban areas are active to help the women entrepreneurs in their ventures.

Abstract

Indiscriminate and intuitive applications of the synthetic pesticides have adversely affected the ecological balance, resulting in pest resurgence, development of resistance in the pest species and environmental pollution. Biocontrol agents are now available to contain effectively diverse diseases and pests of various major field, fruit and vegetable crops with the result their demand in market has enhanced several folds but low production and scarce availability is a major constraint in their large scale adoption by farmers. While as now protocols for mass production of a number of biocontrol agents have been standardised and simplified, these can now be adopted by the unemployed educated youths to start entrepreneurship for self employment. In order to empower and improve the women farmers’ productivity, they need to have proper farm training and capacity building programs to compete various challenges in their rural livelihood and mass production of bio-control agents is an emerging enterprise with commercial potential. The Indian bio-pesticide market stands at over US$127 million (7-8% of the global market) and is expected to triple by FY20. The research efforts at the ICAR institutes and SAUs have been targeted to relieve women of the drudgery by providing technologies, time and labour saving tools with good market linkage. Women self help group with proper training can start their own bio-pesticides units for which finance with subsidy is available.

Abstract

Most of the vegetables available in the market contain large quantity of pesticide residue. This has created serious health problems among the people. Self-sufficiency in safe to eat vegetable production can be achieved either by commercial production or better farming by family in kitchen garden. As quality control mechanism is not strong and well established, the produce from commercial farming can’t be assured as safe to eat product. The continuous effort taken by our centre and other existing systems in the state for the last six years have made the people aware about the quality of vegetables. In Kerala, most of the families, especially in town and nearby areas are having only 3 to 10 percent of land. The space they can spare for vegetable production either on the ground or on roof top is hardly 10 to 40m². Pest and disease attack is another issue in Kerala. Hence our centre gave importance for the design and development of 10m² /20m² /30m² poly-kitchen garden which could accommodate 160 to 350 plants (almost all pest susceptible crops required for a family can be accommodated inside these structures.) suitable for a family by utilizing multi-tier grow bags (one multi-tier grow bag can accommodate 35 to 50 plants), grow bags and troughs. In these structures, cultivation practices can be done even during night without the fear of snake and mosquitoes by fitting a fluorescent lamp. This technology was approved by Government of Kerala and declared 75% subsidy for establishing this full facility for a family. In order to popularize this technology among the public, we had conducted many training programmes and empowered the women (house wife/employed woman) in vegetable production and to make their mindset to ensure a kitchen garden (either a conventional type grow bag kitchen garden or poly-kitchen garden) in their house plot. When we started working with this goal (in 2013, when project was started), < 20% of required vegetables for the state was produced in the state. On account of our continuous effort, by the year 2016, state managed to pick up its vegetable production by 64.5%

Abstract

Livestock sector has gained momentum world over with consistently increasing market demand for live stock products. India with annual 171 million tons of liquid milk production, 74 billion egg production, 3.8 million tons of poultry meat and 11.50 million ton of fish production offers enormous opportunities for women agri-preneurs to venture into this area. Micro-enterprise development related to livestock rearing activities like dairy farming, sheep husbandry, goatry, poultry, livestock feed production, vermin-composting and value added product development and production are the important enterprises in which women can utilize their technical skills. Finance for infrastructure and small scale agro-processing units are requisites to success of rural women entrepreneurs as these will help them to enhance their competency to use raw materials from the farm and livestock to earn substantial income. Rural women entrepreneurs are facing tough competition from the large scale organizations and urban entrepreneurs where governmental interventions are essential. The women producers are not collective in their approach for marketing their products because they are scattered and mostly uneducated. The women entrepreneurs are heavily dependent on middlemen for marketing of their products who pocket large amount of profit. Hence, government should take steps to provide market information of different products and finance to the rural entrepreneurs at concessional rates.

Abstract

Political participation of women, on equal terms with men, at all levels of decision-making is essential to achieve the principles of equality, sustainable development, peace and prosperity. Participation is a development approach, which comprises the involvement of disadvantage segments of population in the design and implementation of policies concerning their wellbeing. To achieve gender equality by 2030 requires urgent action to eliminate the many root causes of discrimination that still curtail women’s rights in private and public spheres. Discriminatory laws need to be changed and legislation adopted to proactively advance equality. 49 countries still lack laws protecting women from domestic violence, while 39 bar equal inheritance rights for daughters and sons. Based on data from 87 countries, 1 in 5 women and girls under the age of 50 will have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner within the last 12 months. International efforts through UN are being encouraged throughout the world but are constrained by lack of national policy, cultural factors, social factors, religious factors, economical factors and role of gender base patriarchy. Secular and sustainable democracy prevails only when women experience benefits equally with their male counterparts. Creating adequate space in politics for women participation is essential to sustain real democracy and oblige mothers, wives, daughters and sisters and Gender Responsive Governance is the best strategy for this which embodies measures, attitudes and practices of different stakeholders, both men and women, at different levels of governance with a clear purpose to impact issues that foster women’s empowerment and promote gender equity and social justice. It is a process that promotes and sustains the ability of women to fully participate in the governance and development process, enhances their ability to raise critical questions about inequality and violence against them without fear and pressure.

Introduction

Self Help Group is a voluntary and self managed group of poor people, who come together to promote savings among themselves and pool savings for activities benefiting either individuals or communities economically. Empowerment of women has now become a key issue in the Government’s Five year plans by organizing women into Self Help Groups to make the beginning of a major process of empowering women. 320 million people, out of our 1.1 billion, are steeped in abject poverty and due to their asset lessens it is difficult for them to access any kind of aid from banking / financial institutions and this state of the hopelessness and the constraints of an ineffective credit delivery system can be transcended by enhancing the self esteem and raising the feeling of human self worth. The SHGs approach is a reshaping initiative that enhances the livelihoods and ensures sustainability by enabling poor families to access effective economical and social development leading to empowerment.

In Tripura SHG’s has been introduced in the year 1999.The main objectives of this programme by mutual beneficial of social and economic activities through women mobilization. SHG’s are a way to involve rural women and men actively in the development process by means of increased income Agricultural situation of WTD differs to some extent from the other districts in regard to topography, soil, extent of rain-fall, variation in temperature and humidity which has resulted in difference in cropping pattern also from that of the other three districts. People mainly practice rice and vegetables cultivation. The plain land people also were satisfied to grow single crop preferably paddy without having any knowledge and experience of improved cultivation for growing multiple crops. Animal husbandry is another sector contributing to the economy of WTD. Cattle and poultry are the main livestock wealth of the district. (DRDA office, Agartala, 2010). Many Government and non-government organization now have come forward for helping poor communities and to energize their capacity in development activities of which Self Help Group (SHGs) is thought as the best means for improving their position in the society.

Abstract

The study was conducted in Tumkur district which is considered as a very progressive district with 7230 SHG’s. It has 11 taluks out of which Tumkur taluk was selected for the study. Within this taluk, a cluster of 7 SHG’s were considered for the study. The results show that more than three fourths of Stree Shakthi group members came to know about the Stree Shakthi Programme through anganawadi workers (92.5%) followed by news papers (7.5%). It is also interesting to note that 87.5% reported that to a great extent their attitude changed about bringing up their children without discrimination, sending their daughter to school compulsorily and growing vegetables in their backyard. Further results reveal that SSP is changing the attitude of rural setting. Family problems, cast and religion, lack of encouragement in the family, political problem were the major constraints in SHG as perceived by the members.  Still SSG has made some qualitative changes in the lives of the rural people.

Abstract

World Economic forum (WEF) which evaluated 149 countries on four parameters including economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment, said that it would take 108 years to close the overall gender gap. That means the economic opportunity gap-based on participation, pay and advancement in the workforce-remains the area that is going to take the longest time to close. Globally, women are paid less than men. Women in most countries earn on average only 60 to 75 per cent of men’s wages. Contributing factors include the fact that women are more likely to be wage workers and unpaid family workers; that women are more likely to engage in low-productivity activities and to work in the informal sector, with less mobility to the formal sector than men. India’s inequality crisis hurts girls and women the most. An Oxfam report on inequality published in January 2019 revealed that in the workplace, women still receive 34% less wages than their male counterparts for the same work. In J&K, incidences of domestic violence, dowry, etc are rampant. State Women Commission J&K receives 1600-1700 domestic violence cases every year, majority cases being from the Kashmir Valley. Men’s silence, insensitivity and indifferences with regards to gender equality practices need to be the focus theme of the time. The fight for gender equality cannot be fought by women alone. Men have a key role to play in demanding and supporting this societal shift by being a part of the movement.

Keywords: Women empowerment, global perspectives, Indian perspectives, way forward.

Concept and Meaning of Empowerment Meaning and definition

Women empowerment has been widely recognized as an important goal in global development process. The term “empowerment” was coined in the second half of the seventeenth century (Oxford English Dictionary). It gained momentum in USA in 1960s when the activists of Black Panat Movement used the term ‘empowerment’ in the context of political mobilization. In 1980s the term was adopted by NGOs worldwide to signify an alternative development agenda for poverty alleviation based on principles of participation and self help. During this period, the participation and self help came to forefront. There after it has entered many fields of theory and practice. Since 1980s, the world has witnessed the concept, used to describe this phenomenon (empowerment).

The voiceless and powerless are the common elements that need the concept of empowerment in terms of socio-economic, technological, cultural and political development. In the context of power, empowerment depends on two things. These are: power can change and power can extend. The concept came to exist that power can change and power can extend giving the term ‘empowerment’ as the power is created in relationship, power and power relationship can certainly change. Therefore, empowerment simply is a process of change.

2.1 Introduction

Empowerment means change, choice and power. It is a process of change by which the individuals and groups with no power and ability to make choices that affect their lives. Women empowerment is a stage of acquiring power for women in order to understand right and to perform her responsibilities towards oneself and others in effective way.

Empowerment is a multi-faceted, multi-dimensional and multi-layered concept. Women's empowerment is a process in which women gain greater share of control over resources- material, human and intellectual [knowledge, information, ideas] and financial resources and control over decision-making in the home, community, society, nation and to gain `power'. According to the Country Report of Government of India, "Empowerment means moving from a position of enforced powerlessness to one of power". In this process, women should be empowered socially, economically, educationally and politically that can help them take Self-decision regarding education, mobility, economic independency, political participation, public speaking and awareness to exercise rights.

Abstract

Women entrepreneurship means the process in which women initiate a business, gather all resources, undertake risks, face challenges, provides employment to others and manage the business independently. Where women population hovers around 50% of the total human population in the world so entrepreneurship by them plays a key role in the development of economy of both developed and developing nations. The problems faced by women entrepreneurs are heavy work load, irregular payment, lack of work guarantee and no maternity benefits, health problems, marketing, financial liberty and being away from home. A different culture is required to promote, motivate and develop sustainable infrastructure for fostering women entrepreneurship. Often, an entrepreneur has to go through a complex set of procedures and formalities to start a business, which not only create irritations and delays but frustrate her efforts until she is exhausted. An urgent need, therefore, is to simplify procedures and formalities. Part of the problem is one of attitudes, which are built on regulatory roles rather than developmental roles. All training and financial agencies need to be gender sensitive. The time has come for an effort to inculcate a spirit of enterprise, self-dependence, creativity, and high goals among women in developing nations. Hence, entrepreneurship must be made part and parcel of the education curriculum.

An Entrepreneur is an individual who creates a new business, bearing most of the risks and enjoying most of the rewards. The process of setting up a business is known as entrepreneurship. An Entrepreneur is commonly seen as an innovator, a source of new ideas, goods, services and business procedures. Entrepreneurship plays a key role in any economy by using the skills and initiative necessary to anticipate needs and bringing good new ideas to market.

Abstract

Role of women in agriculture is a well-known fact and is unquestionable. The changing trend in agriculture technology, use of modern tools, and wider participation of community is crucial in making farming activity as an attractive field of employment. While most of the young and male population is shifting to urban areas for wage based non-agriculture activity, women have to bear the burden of agriculture in villages. The drudgery faced by women in farm activiies need to be reduced and value addition to the farm products is required at home  scale/community scale in the villages. Newer and economically viable systems need to be introduced at village level with ample scope for women to participate in these activities. Women should not only be partners in agriculture but they also should take lead in entrepreneurship and in value addition. Further marketing systems for the products need to be established. 

Abstract

Farm women are the backbone of Indian agriculture. They contribute more to food production and family income in terms of skilled and entrepreneurship than is generally known or accepted. Thus the governmental efforts to reach the development goals may be jeopardised by not taking into account the women’s contribution to agriculture. In this age of scientific development farm women have not participated to the extent they are expected in agriculture because they are not recognized as tangible contributors to agricultural development. They always remained as invisible workers in spite of their pivotal role and remain silently behind all the efforts of men. Very few scientific and empirical investigations have been made to examine the actual participation of farm women in crop production and dairy production activities. Taking the above situation into consideration, four minuscule studies were conducted in Bangalore, Mysore, Mandya and Chamarajanagar districts of Karnataka to know the level, extent and nature of participation of women in home, farm and livestock production activities.

Abstract

Scarcity of resources, economic deprivation, gender bias in wages, prevention from decision making and using income generated by farm activities has made life miserable and unjustifiably hard for rural women. The plight of rural women can be improved by dissemination of latest technologies in agriculture, creating small entrepreneurial outlets for agri-based products, networking of support services for women, development of new and adoption of drudgery reducing technologies, improvement in rural infrastructure to improve the life style and to promote entrepreneurial opportunities, better access to resources, organizing women’s co-operative movement, larger role in decision making, mandatory involvement of women in all agencies and organizations involved in rural development, feedback and follow up of women’s programmes and recognizing the success of rural women by government and its highlighting by media.

Status of Women

As per 2011 Census, women account for 586.46 million, and represent 48.5% of India’s total population. However, from global perspectives, they constitute half of global population, and 1/3^rd labour force, but receive only 1/10^th of world income, and own less than 1% of world’s property. Further from national point of view as Reddy et al. (1994) in his study opined that “although women constitute 50 percent of India’s population, perform two-thirds of the work and produce 50 percent of food commodities consumed by the country and they earn only one-third of the remuneration and 10 percent of the property or wealth of the country.

The vast majority of working women are uneducated cultivators and agricultural labourers residing in villages. Most of the women, working on the family farm are unpaid labourers. 63 percent of all educated women with at least a high school certificate are unemployed, and of the 37 percent who are employed 15 percent are clerks, 5 percent teachers, 7 percent nurses and 10 percent are other professionals. Only 6 percent of Government employees are women (Jain, A.K. 2004). Rural Women form the most important productive work force in the economy of majority of the developing nations including India. Agriculture, the single largest production endeavour in India, contributing about 18% of GDP, is increasingly becoming a female activity. Agriculture sector employs 4/5th of all economically active women in the country. 48% of India’s self-employed farmers are women. There are 75 million women engaged in dairying as against 15 million men and 20 million in animal husbandry as compared to 1.5 million men.

Despite progress in several key indicators, a gender analysis demonstrates that women continue to be relatively disadvantaged in matters of survival, health, nutrition, literacy and productivity. Further, more than 90 percent of rural women are unskilled, restricting them to low paid occupations. Women generally have no control over land and other productive assets which largely exclude them from access to institutional credit. Further, agricultural wages for women, on an average 30-50 percent less than those for men. Though they work for longer hours under inhospitable conditions, their participation in decision making process is less than desirable.

Abstract

Women become major players in creating sustainable livelihood in rural areas. Though they are the major work force compared to men in agriculture and allied areas, they are considered as invisible entity. Their contribution in total labour force itself is about 55 to 60 per cent. They play multiple roles both in and outside the home by ensuring food security and substantiating nutritional security to the family as a whole. Empowering these women with knowledge and skill to take up vocational income generating activities is prime need of the hour. Further, building their capacities on managerial skills, decision making, and technical competency is also equally important area of concern.

Abstract

Women Technology Park is a technology modulation and a training centre to show case livelihood technologies for women. The aim of Women Technology Park is to create awareness among rural farming community and give trainings of proven technology to reap maximum benefits from their existing resources. Its objective is to make them aware about “processing” that can enhance their income in multiple times. In this direction, the first ever Women Technology Park (WTP) of Jammu and Kashmir was sponsored by SEED division of Department of Science and Technology, Government of India and endorsed by Livestock Products Division FVSc, SKUAST-Jammu. It was inaugurated by Vice chancellor of SKUAST- Jammu at Deoli Village of Bishnah Block, Jammu and Kashmir. 12 groups of women were screened out and trainings were imparted to them for a week. More than 75 training cum awareness programs have been organized with more than 1500 beneficiaries. There are more than 50 beneficiaries who received start up grant in the form of goods essential for preparing livestock products and started up their own micro-enterprises and became self-reliant and set an example for other women to come up and take up processing of livestock products as profession to earn their livelihood.

The interventions for women empowerment was perhaps started intensively since fourth plan period. Subsequently many more initiatives are taken for the total all round development of women in this country.

A. 4^TH FIVE YEAR PLAN (1969-1974)

Farmers Training and Education Programme

It was for the first time in the 4^th Five Year Plan that an effort was made by Ministry of Agriculture to address the training and extension needs of women farmers with new and improved technology through “Farmers Training and Education Programme”, in which a network of 150 Farmers Training Centers were established to close the visible gap between the recommended package of practices and the farm women’s knowledge and skills about them. In this programme, a linkage of the supply of production inputs with improved technical training, supported by Farm Radio Broadcast and Functional Literacy was provided. The unique feature of this programme was that for the first time, a cognizance of women’s participation in agriculture was taken. The experience of the programme had shown that the states which gave due importance to this programme, especially in terms of curriculum planning and syllabus formulation (based on true status and needs of women farmers), achieved very good results. It was, this programme, which focused many issues that had to be categorically considered while planning and implementing agriculture support programmes for women farmers.

INTRODUCTION

Women constitute half of the humanity, contributing to two-thirds of world’s work hours. She earns only one-third of the total income and owns less than one-tenth of the world’s resources. This shows that the economic status of women is in a pathetic condition and this is more so in a country like India. Rural women in India share abundant responsibility and perform a wide spectrum of duties in running the family, maintaining the house, involving in activities like rearing, feeding livestock, attending to farm labour, and the likes. Still they suffer economically and are socially invisible. Training of rural women is important so as to increase their involvement in developmental process, enhance their skill and make them equal partners in national development.

Abstract

Sericulture, an agro-based industry contributes significantly to Indian economy.  Silk cocoons are reeled on charaka, cottage and multiend reeling machines. Of these more than 50% of raw silk comes from charaka sector. Charaka silk reeling units decreased from 23971 to 16263 (1998-2003) in Karnataka. These charakas are mostly operated at grass root level with labour coming from small, marginal and land less villagers. A study was conducted in 15 charaka reeling units in two taluks each of Bangalore rural, Mysore, Kolar and Chamarajanagar districts. Respondents were grouped into small (1-4 charakas), medium (5-8) and large charaka reelers (>8). Primary data was collected with pre-tested schedules.

1.0. Objectives

• To impart the concept of word formation
• To train to use and change words in various category
• To provide the knowledge of affixation, conversion and compounding

2.0. Word Formation

The term ‘word formation’ does not impart an exact, universally endorsed usage. It focuses on all processes associated to changing the form of the word by, for example, affixation basically refers to morphology. In broad sense word formation depicts the processes of forming new lexical units. These changes can be noticed and understood easily, sometimes it becomes complex too.

1.0. Objectives

• To study the elements of the sentence and its order in that
• To identify elements of the sentence and observe the changing of words’ order in that
• To teach to label elements used in the sentence
• To teach that every language has its conventions for word order

2.0. Grammatical Units

To know any language knowledge of its grammar is highly required. As it is set of structural rules governing the composition of clauses, phrases and words in a language. On the basis of function, words’ categories are described. Utterance, morpheme, words, phrases, clauses and sentences in language are called grammatical units. Here few lines are given below following the description of grammatical units used.

Introduction
Video and graphics libraries are essential tools for creating, managing, and enhancing multimedia projects, from professional filmmaking to web development. These libraries provide pre-built elements, including animations, images, icons, effects, and stock video footage, which can significantly reduce production time and elevate the quality of visual content. In this chapter, we will discuss the role of video and graphics libraries, popular library platforms, techniques for integrating these assets into projects, and essential considerations when working with them.
Understanding Video Libraries
Video libraries offer a vast repository of footage that creators can use to supplement or enhance their projects. These libraries are especially useful in situations where creating original footage is impractical, costly, or timeconsuming.
Key Elements in Video Libraries
• Stock Footage: Pre-recorded video clips covering a wide range of themes, from nature and urban landscapes to action shots and abstract animations.
• Background Footage: Visuals intended to support on-screen text or act as a backdrop.
• Transitions and Effects: Clips or assets used to transition smoothly between scenes or add effects to existing footage.
• Licensed Footage: Footage that’s licensed for use under specific terms, such as Creative Commons or commercial licenses.

Feature articles are an essential component of journalism and storytelling, offering an in-depth exploration of topics, people, or issues in an engaging and informative manner. Unlike straightforward news reports, feature articles provide context, detail, and a narrative that captivates readers.
Introduction to Feature Articles
A feature article is a detailed piece of writing that explores a particular topic, person, or event in depth, offering analysis, personal insights, or unique perspectives. They are typically longer than news articles and can cover a wide range of topics such as culture, science, lifestyle, technology, business, or human-interest stories.
Characteristics of a Feature Article
A feature article differs from other types of journalistic writing, such as news reports, by focusing on depth, creativity, and storytelling. Below are the key characteristics of a feature article:
1. In-Depth Exploration
• Feature articles provide a deep dive into a topic, exploring it from various angles.
• They go beyond surface-level reporting to examine the “why” and “how,” offering detailed insights and context.
• Example: A feature on climate change might include interviews with scientists, personal stories of affected individuals, and analysis of policy changes.

The extension professionals are interested to disseminate technology to the users. The users are rural people. The users of technology are to read and understand technology designed for them. Rural readers have different interests like, crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, forestry etc.

Report writing is the process of creating a structured document that conveys information, findings, analyses, or recommendations on a specific topic or event. It involves gathering data, organizing it logically, and presenting it in a clear, concise, and formal manner tailored to the needs of a specific audience. The purpose of a report can range from providing insights and informing decisions to documenting progress or offering solutions to problems.
Importance of Report Writing
Report writing plays a vital role in various fields, including academics, business, research, and government. Its importance can be summarized as follows:
1. Effective Communication: Reports provide a formal means to convey ideas, findings, and analyses. They ensure information is communicated clearly and concisely to specific audiences, making it easier to understand and act upon.
2. Facilitates Decision-Making: Well-structured reports present data and insights that support informed decision-making. For example, business reports can guide strategic planning, while research reports help policymakers develop evidence-based strategies.
3. Accountability and Transparency: Reports serve as documentation that holds individuals or organizations accountable for their actions, progress, or outcomes. For instance, financial reports detail the allocation and use of resources, ensuring transparency.
4. Record Keeping and Reference: Reports act as permanent records of activities, events, or research. They provide historical data that can be referenced in the future for audits, evaluations, or comparisons.

Importance-Effective writing -Components of writing : Introduction , Audience and format, Composition and style, Structure, Grammatical errors, Proofing and Conclusion-Ways to improve writing skills -Technical writing.

A written communication is always put into writing and generally used when the audience is at a distance or when a permanency or record is required or where its preservation is essential in case it is needed as a evidence in cases of dispute. It is generally in the form of instruction, orders, rules and regulations, policies, procedures, posters, memos, reports information bulletins.

Importance of writing skills

1. Expression

Writing is one of the important ways of expressing your thoughts, and communicating ideas and views to others. Some have the innate ability to put their thoughts into words. Writing is more beneficial, specifically for those who are emotional, and do not express verbally. This tool allows them to express their ideas, thoughts or their existing mental condition, which otherwise, may not be possible. People express themselves by writing novels, short stories, biographies and even personal diaries, etc.

2. Judgment of a person

Often, a person is judged by the quality of writing, he/she possesses. Be it a school, college, workplace or a society, writing has become a vital yardstick to assess one’s knowledge and intellectuality. When we come across a person who is prim and proper, we immediately make an impression about that person being careful, responsible and sincere. Similarly, if the writing is devoid of mistakes, we tend to create a good impression about the writer.

Fundamentals of writing farm stories

1. Use of plain and simple language: A farm journalist would have translated technical terms into their plain language.

2. Presentation of novel ideas: People are open to new concepts that are logically explained and will increase their return on investment as a whole.

3. Keep the message brief and to the point so that farmers can recall it. The information should be focused on the benefits that can be attained without using an excessive amount of wording.

4. Use of visuals: Visuals add interest, are more memorable, and have deeper significance. A statement is more understandable and pleasing to the eye when there are more visuals present.

5. Farmers are very receptive to messages that are recent, reliable, realistic, and relevant (the “4Rs”).

6. The audience appreciates and accepts the message that is centred on their environment, locations, and selves.

χ^2-test: The χ² test (chi square test) is based on the assumption of normality. The χ^2-test is based on chi-square distribution and as a non-parametric test, it is used for comparing a sample variance to a theoretical population variance.

Yates’ correction: Yates has suggested a correction for continuity in χ² value calculated in a 2×2 table, predominantly when cell frequencies are small and χ² is just on the significance level. The correction suggested is known as Yates’ correction, which involves the reduction of the deviation of observed from expected frequencies that reduces the value of χ².

Yield mapping or yield monitoring is a technique in agriculture of using GPS data to analyse variables such as crop yield and moisture content in a given field. This data produces a yield map that can be used to compare yield distribution within the field from year to year. This allows farmers to determine areas of the field that, for example, may need to be more heavily irrigated or are not yielding any crop at all. It also allows farmers to show the effects of a change in field-management techniques, to develop nutrient strategies for their fields, and as a record of crop yield.

Yield is ultimate indicator of variation of different agronomic parameters in different parts within the field. So mapping of yield and interpretation and correlation of that map with the spatial and temporal variability of different agronomic parameters helps in development of next season’s crop management strategy. Yield monitors measure the volume or mass flow rate to generate time periodic record of quantity of harvested crop for that period. Time periodic yield data is then synchronized with location address obtained from on-board GPS system to create most common colour coded thematic map. Yield mapping can be carried out easily in mechanized crops. By using either loading cells that weighed the crop passing on a conveying belt or an array of sonic beam mounted over the grape discharge chute to estimate the volume, and the tonnage, of fruit harvested. Tree crops seem to have more stable yields. In handpicked fruits yield mapping is more difficult. Yield maps are one of the most valuable sources of spatial data for precision agriculture. In developing these maps, it is essential to remove the data points that do not accurately represent the yield at a corresponding location. Map averaging or smoothing is usually done to aid data interpretation. A long yield history is essential to avoid drawing conclusions that are affected by the weather or other unpredictable factors during a particular year. Processed yield maps can be used to investigate factors affecting the yield or to prescribe variable rate applications of agricultural inputs according to spatially variable yield goals (yield potential).

The integration of yoga practices into community mobilization represents a profound synthesis of ancient wisdom and contemporary social transformation methodologies, offering communities powerful tools for personal and collective empowerment that address the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of human development. This innovative approach recognizes that sustainable community change requires not only strategic planning and organizational capacity but also the inner resources, collective harmony, and holistic well-being that yoga practices can cultivate among community members. Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word “yuj” meaning to unite or join, embodies principles of integration and connection that align naturally with community mobilization goals of bringing people together for collective action and mutual support. The ancient science of yoga offers systematic practices for developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, physical vitality, and spiritual wisdom that can enhance communities’ capacity for sustained collective action while promoting individual well-being and social harmony. The application of yoga in community contexts

Abstract

February 14, 2019 marks the third anniversary of the One Billion Rising campaign, a new escalation in violence against women that calls for a radical shift to end the global epidemic of abuse that women face worldwide. Violence against women continues to be on rise. This ill-omened barrier to achieving equality, development, peace as well as to the fulfillment of women and girls’ human rights has gone viral. The National Coalition against Domestic Violence reports that 1.3 million women are victims of domestic abuse each year. Violence against women is a serious problem in India, too. Overall, one-third of women age 15-49 have experienced physical violence and about 1 in 10 has experienced sexual violence. It is very disturbing as well as discouraging to think that a country that praises womanhood through epics and their devotion to goddesses can be so demeaning and indifferent when it comes to the common women living in the country. Amid environment of bleak hope, yog with multiple benefits of physical, psychological and mental stresses offers a ray of hope for women. Yog means connectivity with oneself that ignites power to understand strength of one’s own innerself, builds confidence to think of innovative attainments, endure the atrocities of external world and stay moralized. Yog classes run throughout the world providing relief to billions. Yog therapies are in operation to cure social stress, mental fatigue and physiological disorders etc. More research on yog, yog therapy and yogic interventions aided by political and social will are needed to have its effective implications on the women empowerment and sustainability of human world.

As rural populations decrease, so does the agricultural work force. In Europe and North America, agriculture now represents about 5% of the work force. In Africa and Asia, it is expected that the number of agricultural workers will have decreased from nearly 70% of the population in the 1980s to barely 50% by 2015 (Crop life International, 2010). The events of the past few years have highlighted the vulnerability of global food security to major shocks – both in the global agricultural markets and in the world economy. The food price crisis and the ensuing economic crisis reduced the purchasing power of large segments of the population in many developing countries, severely curtailing their access to food and thus undermining their food security. “We estimate that in 2012 there will be over a million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition – what’s important to know is that malnutrition can kill,” UNICEF’s Director of Emergency Programmes, Louis-Georges Arsenault, said in a news release. “We need more resources to really scale up our response before it becomes too late and too many lives are lost.” Sahel and other regions in the Horn of Africa are facing severe food crisis (UN, 2012). In such a condition, to feed the hungry mouths of the world, agriculture needs to be more modern and decisions should be information and knowledge based and not instinct-based. Information and communication technology has a great role to play here.

While on one hand, more than 25 per cent of rural population in India is between 15 and 29 years of age, on the other, very little demographic dividend in agriculture is being derived. Unable to find decent employment, youth often look for employment in the urban informal sector, with poor working conditions and pay. But without training in skills suited to the urban labour market, these youth have few opportunities in the urban areas. Inadequately trained to compete successfully in urban labour market, they often suffer varying levels of poverty and marginalization in towns than in rural areas. In rural areas, if young farmers do not replace the ageing farmers, it will result in problems related to food security. For young people to take to agriculture, farming must be personally satisfying, mentally challenging, socially acceptable and economically rewarding. However, field reality is something different.

The World is a home to more than one billion young people aged between 15 and 24 years.  Many are unable to fulfil their potentional because of poverty, hunger, poor health and lack of education. As a result, they lack the skills needed to gain employment, with rural youth typically, but often fruitlessly migration in search of economic opportunities. However, given support and opportunities for gainful employment, young people have the potential to play a significant role in agriculture.

India has a big advantage as more than half of its population is below 30 years of age.  Indian agriculture will receive a big boost if the country takes advantage of its young population and encourage them into farm sector by making it lucrative.  It is necessary to launch a Youth for Agricultural Transformation Movement in rural India. Youth can provide demand driven services such as farm health monitoring and marketing of biological software essential for sustainable agriculture, climate-risk management, organization  of bio-parks, food parks, bio-village, bio-industrial watersheds and improved post-harvesting technology. Educated rural youth can establish Village Knowledge Centres (VKVs) to provide information at right time to farmers. Home Science graduates can establish nutrition clinics to help hidden hunger through appropriate local grains and vegetables (Swaminathan, M.S.). Why Youth in Agriculture?

ABSTRACT

India is a developing country and agriculture is at the core of this development. Youth participation in agriculture for its sustained contribution to a nation’s development is crucial but this is not ascertained. FAO has declared year 2014 as the International Year of Family Farming (IYFF). Today’s youth are tomorrow’s family farmers, and maintaining interest in farming as a profession is vital to future food security. The number of young people of working age is increasing while the same group is typically rejecting careers in agriculture and food system. This scenario can be changed by cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders—not just as farmers but as food entrepreneurs, scientists, agronomists, extension agents, union and government leaders etc. Governments, particularly in developing countries, need to invest in policies and practices that provide access to land, credit and banking services, education and knowledge, and technical skills for young farmers. And these governments need to ensure that young people have access to markets, goods and service, employment opportunities, and leisure so that they prefer to stay on the farm.

z-test: The z-test is based on the assumption of normality. The z-test is based on the normal probability distribution and is used for judging the significance of several statistical measures, particularly the men.

1. Basic Information and Agrarian Status

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa covering 39,037,000 hectares. It is bordered by Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. It is situated between 15 and 22° south latitude and 26 and 34° east longitude. Climatic conditions are largely sub-tropical with one rainy season between November and March. In 1981, the country had 5 hectares per capita whilst it is estimated that the current population to land ratio has declined to 3.25 hectares per person and this is largely attributed to population increases that have taken place over the years. The national census conducted by the Central Statistics Office in 2002 showed that the country has a population of 1,20,00,000 people. About 80 per cent of the population resides in the rural areas, where they sustain their livelihoods through agriculture. When discussing agricultural production activities in the country, it is important to note that nearly all the soils (80 per cent) in the country are sandy from granite rocks or from schists.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. The Agriculture Sector of Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has a total area of 390 580 square kilometers of which one per cent is made up of rivers and lakes, 38 per cent is arable land and the rest is suited for livestock and wildlife production. The country is bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Mozambique. It is located between latitudes 15,30 and 22,30 degrees south of the Equator and between longitudes 25 and 33,10 degrees east of the Greenwich Meridian (CSO, 2006).

The Agriculture sector forms the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy and accounts for about 17 per cent of the GDP. Zimbabwe‘s agricultural sector comprises mostly smallholder farmers who include communal, resettlement and small-scale farmers. However, this sector is besieged by a plethora of issues, namely high stocking rates, sub-optimal climate, and deforestation and land degradation. The Land Reform and Resettlement Programme which commenced in 1980 resulted in hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans being resettled on former white commercial farms, in either Model A1(communally owned) or A2 schemes (large scale commercial farms). Thus the challenge to policy makers was now to ensure that future agricultural production is not compromised by current practices. The new farming sector largely comprises resource poor farmers, academics, corporate leaders, high-level policy makers and traditional farmers. Most of the new farmers lack requisite Agricultural skills and knowledge needed in modern Agricultural practice. Land reform measures led to the exodus of some white farmers in the beginning of the 21st century which crippled the economy depriving it of technological know-how and causing shortages of basic commodities.

The modernization of agriculture therefore, among other intervention strategies, through the use of ICTs can contribute directly to food security at national and household levels, beneficiation of agricultural produce, effective land management and an increase of national wealth.

1. Introduction

Micronutrients are essential nutrients required in small quantities but play a crucial role in human health and productivity. Key micronutrients include iodine, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, B6, and B12 (Godswill et al., 2020). Zinc deficiency, a common micronutrient shortfall, is prevalent not only in developed countries but particularly in impoverished nations. It can affect individuals of all ages, with young children and breastfeeding women being the most vulnerable. Addressing zinc insufficiency through zinc supplementation or diets rich in animal protein sources has shown promising results in promoting growth and reversing hypogonadism. Subsequent research has revealed that inadequate zinc consumption in the diet is the primary cause of this hypogonadism syndrome. Since the identification of zinc deficiency as a health concern in 1961, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in the biochemical and clinical aspects of zinc nutrition (King and Cousins, 2006). In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of the physiological functions of zinc, zinc bioavailability (including inhibitors and enhancers), the human requirement for zinc, factors affecting zinc absorption, consequences and causes of zinc deficiency, evaluation of zinc status, and prevention strategies for zinc deficiency, focusing on the use of zinc-fortified foods.