Surveys show that majority of rural women participate in agricultural activities, particularly those related to food security and animal production. Some also undertake ploughing and irrigation. Division of Labour by Gender. While the division of labour between men and women varies by crop, overall men carry out most of the land preparation, planting, weeding, irrigation and pest control. Women contribute moderately to seed preparation, fertilization and harvesting, and significantly to storage and marketing.
Food processing is the primary responsibility of women.
In animal husbandry, men are primarily responsible for the care of water buffalo, donkeys, cows and sheep, while women carry out most of the milking, processing and marketing of milk and animal products. Women also carry out virtually all domestic tasks, including water and fuel collection, and food processing and preparation. Gender Relations in Decision-making in Farming Activities. Data from a 1993 sample survey suggest that rural women participate little in decision-making at the household level in irrigated areas. Men have almost exclusive authority on matters related to seeds, buying and selling of livestock and land, use of herbicides and agricultural machinery, what to grow and where to sell produce.