ICRISAT Boosts Tribal Women and Tourism in Odisha on Women’s Day

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

During the International Women’s Day celebrations hosted by ICRISAT in Odisha, a key highlight on the India Tourism calendar, women farmers from the Kalahandi and Bargarh districts were spotlighted for their transformative contributions to the dryland regions. These women, integral to the success of the Rice Fallow Management project—a pivotal initiative under the umbrella of Odisha Tourism and supported by the Government of Odisha—demonstrated their invaluable contributions to both local and global tourism through sustainable agricultural practices.

The event was a significant occasion for Global Tourism, focusing on recognizing the pioneering women farmers who are at the forefront of innovation in rice fallow areas and sharing their knowledge within self-help groups. It attracted over 150 women farmers, including participants from Bargarh’s Women Self-Help Groups and Kalahandi, thereby promoting Odisha Tourism by highlighting the role of women in agriculture. The gathering was not just a local celebration but a beacon for India Tourism, showcasing the empowerment of women in agriculture.

“Thank you for acknowledging us and inviting us to this International Women’s Day event. It brings us great joy and motivates us to strive even harder for change,” shared Farmer, Kamala Pradhan. “Farming can be challenging for women, but when our efforts are recognized and appreciated, it fills us with happiness. We are grateful to ICRISAT for recognizing our hard work and for celebrating with us today.”

The program commenced with an interactive session that shed light on the experiences of women farmers involved in this innovative project, a topic of interest for stakeholders in Global Tourism looking to explore sustainable practices. The dialogue centered on incorporating pulses into rice fallows and underscored the importance of seed availability, reflecting the project’s contribution to seed security—a critical aspect of sustainability in both India Tourism and Global Tourism sectors.

Moreover, the celebration of women leaders who have significantly contributed to the Rice Fallows Project underscored the synergy between Odisha Tourism, India Tourism, and Global Tourism, by highlighting sustainable agricultural advancements. ICRISAT staff addressed concerns related to seed production and storage, emphasizing the exchange of knowledge on seed systems that resonate with sustainable practices promoted within Global Tourism.

“We are delighted to be part of the Rice Fallow Management program,” shared Members of the Maa Laxmi Self-Help Group. “It has brought us closer to ensuring food security and providing a little extra income for our households. We learned new cultivation techniques for our fallow land, which have enabled us to produce more food, resulting in a very successful crop this season.”

Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, Director General of ICRISAT, commended the event for facilitating essential discussions that elevate the profile of women in agriculture. This acknowledgment not only celebrates their enduring legacy but also positions them as pivotal figures in ensuring agricultural resilience and food security, themes that are increasingly relevant to India Tourism and Global Tourism, especially in promoting sustainable travel destinations like Odisha.

“The experiences and contributions of women farmers are vital to achieving food security and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices. On this International Women’s Day, we are proud to honor these leading women farmers who are driving change and inspiring us all to work even harder for a better future,” said Dr Hughes.

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