Beyond Livelihoods: Assessing Women's Empowerment in Sustainable Dairy in Agra District

Satsangi R and Singh V

Published on: 2025-09-04

Abstract

This research examines the various aspects of sustainable dairy initiatives in empowering women in the Agra districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. It extends beyond conventional economic metrics to encompass broader social and environmental aspects. This study demonstrates how sustainable dairy practices impact women's ability to make informed decisions, participate in their communities, access resources, and take responsibility for the environment, despite the primary goal of improving their livelihoods. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, focus groups, and case studies to gather the views of women who work on smallholder dairy farms supported by sustainability-oriented programs. The findings of the study demonstrate that sustainable dairy programs boost self-esteem, community recognition, and participation in local and household government issues. Women are adopting more effective methods to care for animals, manage fodder, and reduce waste, which emphasizes their contribution to promoting eco-friendly rural development. This study examines the importance of implementing gender-sensitive policies that integrate social empowerment with environmental sustainability. This project changes the story about how rural women in India are developing.