Consultation Based Inductive Study of Vegetables Growing Women Farmers of Punjab, Pakistan

Pakistan is an agricultural country where 45% population is connected with agriculture. This population consists of males and females doing farming for their survival. Males are kept under consideration always while women potential is underestimated. Women work side by side with their males and remain involved in farming activities especially indoor cultivation of vegetables. In this regard, the present study was conducted in Gujranwala district of Punjab, to assess the situation of women regarding vegetables cultivation along with their need assessment regarding farming. In this regard through multistage random sampling, 500 women farmers doing vegetables farming were selected as respondents. Data were collected through structured interview schedule and were analyzed with the help of SPSS. Results revealed that literacy level of women in study area was lower. Regarding vegetables traditional framing was being adopted while adoption of improved techniques such as tunnel farming was not impressive at all. Inappropriate market existence appeared as the most vulnerable constraint along with the poor services provided by extension field staff, finance shortage and high inputs prices. On the basis of results it is suggested that literacy programme by government especially for women should be started. Female extension staff should also be appointed especially for home based farming activities training provision. Subsidy should be provided on inputs to reduce the cost of production. More important, government should pay attention on establishment of sustainable market separate for organically and chemically produced vegetables.