Results of a mapping exercise in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh 27 participants: 17 women, 10 men farming, breeding cattle and working as labourers; most of them were marginal farmers; the majority was illiterate

Who does what, when, labour intensity

Observations by Parag Women must use a veil to cover their faces Women are not allowed to go outside the village without the companion of a male member of the family. The women are supposed to only work at home or in the village. These restrictions limit women to gain an income. Women’s work is less valued in the market.

Another mapping in Sajapur District 20 women Marginal farmers with 2-3 acres of land Main income: agriculture, dairy and day labour

All activities of women and men

Observations and remarks by the women I The women felt that the list with their activities was much longer than the men’s They commented that men have got time to rest during their work, but women work continuously; The division of tasks was decided by society. Most of the work done by women was limited to their home or village; women were not allowed to go outside the village without the company of a family member. It was an eye opener to see the significant contribution of women to the family economy indirectly.

Observations and remarks by the women II All the resources were owned by the male members of the family, women owned nothing. The women pointed out that they used a veil or mouth cover because that was the social norm. Women do not participate in any institution. ´Who would listen to us, who would give us justice?´

Decision making and financial control Major role for the male members of the family. Most women had no access to the market and most of the agri-produce was marketed by male members of the family. Participants told that they sometimes felt that they were like the cow of their home and had no freedom.

Participants gave the following options for change There is a huge need to enhance women’s ownership in family resources Need to enhance women’s participation in different societal institutions Need to generate awareness and sensitivity towards gender issues with men and women To enhance the percentage of educated people, especially women. To make women aware of different women’s rights and entitlements We need to come together and help each other in critical conditions.