Nationwide Celebration of Women Farmers’ Day on 15th October 2026

ICAR-CIRCOT celebrated Women Farmers’ Day on 15th October 2026 in the gracious presence of Dr. C. D. Mayee, Former Chairman, ASRB, New Delhi.

In his welcome address, Dr. S. K. Shukla, Director, ICAR-CIRCOT highlighted the contributions of women to cotton farming, ginning, spinning, harvesting, and processing. He also emphasized biochar production from agricultural residues as an opportunity for sustainable value addition and income generation. Dr. C. D. Mayee highlighted women’s contributions to cotton production and processing, noting that 71% of women are engaged in these activities. He stressed the need for equal opportunities, recognition and suitable machinery to reduce drudgery. He also mentioned the proposed inauguration of an end-to-end women-operated textile park at Dhapewada, Nagpur, on 17th October 2026.

Dr. I. L. Pardeshi, Professor and Head, Department of Food Grains, PGI PHTM, Roha, Raigad, delivered a online lecture on business opportunities in the food sector, covering processing, packaging, solar drying, oil mills, dal mills and value-added products. 

Ms. Anushka Bangar, Strategic Marketing Manager at Forecast Agro Innovation Pvt. Ltd., Pune gave virtual presentation on “From Biogas to Business: Empowering Women Through Sustainable Enterprise,” highlighting biogas, organic fertilizers, Bio-input Resource Centres and women-lead enterprises.

In his concluding remarks, the Director highlighted ICAR-CIRCOT technologies of cotton-picking gloves and breathable protective masks. He also emphasized funding support ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh under the PM-RKVY scheme along with entrepreneurial assistance through ICAR-CIRCOT R-ABI to empower women in agriculture.

More than 100 participants, including scientists, startup representatives, women farmers and other stakeholders, participated in the celebration.