HYDERABAD, OCTOBER 15, 2026: National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (ICAR–NAARM), Hyderabad, celebrated Women Farmers’ Day 2026 on 15 October 2026 wherein United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The celebrations marked the sharing of success stories and experiences of women farmers, a hands-on demo of vermicompost preparation, and an expert talk on “Socio-economic empowerment of farm women”.
Women farmers should prioritise their health and take adequate precautions against occupational hazards while working in the fields, said Dr. Ch. Radhika Rani, Former Professor, NIRDPR, Hyderabad. She was delivering the Chief Guest address during the Women Farmers’ Day celebrations at the Academy. Highlighting the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in empowering women in the Telugu states, she noted that they have emerged as a strong platform for promoting self-reliance and empowerment among women. She cautioned women farmers to adopt appropriate safety measures, including the use of masks, hand gloves and other protective equipment while spraying chemicals, pesticides and herbicides, to minimize exposure and prevent health hazards.
Dr. Gopal Lal, Joint Director, ICAR-NAARM, urged women farmers to leverage modern technologies, including drones and farm machinery, to reduce drudgery and improve efficiency in agricultural operations. Recognising their significant contribution to the country’s agricultural workforce, he appreciated their efforts and extended greetings on the occasion.
Ms. Lavanya, an ICAR Best Woman Farmer Awardee from Telakapally village, Nagarkurnool district, shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges to cultivate 70 acres of land. She highlighted her practices in organic and multi-crop farming, including the cultivation of saffron rice, and explained how she manages the entire value chain, from seed selection to marketing, setting an example for aspiring women farmers. Ms. Rajeswari, a smallholder woman farmer from Siddapur village, Ranga Reddy district, shared her experience of adopting sustainable farming practices using cow dung, neem-based inputs and other organic methods.
Progressive women farmers Smt Saraswathi, Smt Laxmamma, Smt Prabhavati, Smt Y. Rajeswari and Smt Lavanya were felicitated on the occasion. Earlier, Dr Surya Rathod, Principal Scientist, NAARM welcomed the gathering, and Dr Venkattakumar, Head, XSM division, NAARM narrated the significance of the day. Dr Yamini, Principal Scientist, and Dr Supriya, Scientist, facilitated the programme conduction. Dr Reshma Gills, Sr Scientist, proposed vote of thanks. Around the 50 Women farmers participated in the celebrations besides NAARM staff and faculty members.
About the Author
