Odisha issues ‘Bhubaneswar Declaration’: India’s first-ever policy recognising women farmers’ role in agriculture

Odisha has become the first state in India to formally publish a policy declaration identifying women farmers as central contributors to agricultural continuity and climate resilience.

The document will guide future government interventions at a time when global institutions are preparing for the United Nations’ observance of the International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026, according to reports by The New Indian Express.

Land Access, Heritage And Biodiversity

The declaration, drafted by the state’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, lists actions aimed at improving control over agricultural resources, strengthening agro-biodiversity and drawing attention to traditional knowledge systems.

It proposes steps to encourage registration of farmland in women’s names through joint or individual titles and calls for targeted support for single women cultivators.

The document also refers to Forest Rights Act entitlements and seeks easier access to public schemes linked with agriculture.

Women Major Share Of Odisha’s Farm Workforce

The TNIE reports stated that data presented in the declaration show that women represent a majority of the agricultural labour force in the state and are engaged in several stages of cultivation and seed management.

Their involvement ranges from crop production and seed conservation to processing and local trade, although a comparatively small proportion of agricultural land is held under female ownership.

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Support For Cooperatives

According to the policy, women-led cooperatives and Farmer-Producer Organisations will be eligible for extended technical guidance and financial assistance for a minimum of five years.

It also proposes measures to promote lesser-known crops and protect traditional varieties through identification, documentation and incentives.