Author(s): M Milcah Paul and Dr. P Radha Rani

Abstract:
Resources are the key considerations for rural people to negotiate their livelihoods. Women do not have proper access to resources which hinders her development and progress. The study was conducted with an objective to explore the gender differences in accessibility and control over farm resources. An exploratory research design was adopted for conducting the study. The study was conducted in 112 households of Aurepalle and Dokur villages in Mahbubnagar district of Telangana State, India. One male and female who were the decision makers in the household were interviewed separately with the help of an interview schedule. The results showed that there were notable differences seen between men and women in the access to and control over the farm resources. Men had greater access to resources like seeds, pesticides and fertilisers, farm implements, water and agricultural loans used for the farm when compared to women. Very few men and women had access and control over subsidies. Though women participated in farm activities they had less access to farm resources when compared to women. The study concludes that promotion of equal access to productive resources between genders must be done which promotes women’s empowerment and gender equality in the society.