Women’s empowerment in agriculture in Lahore cantt, Punjab, Pakistan: A study of participation, barriers, and policy implications

Abstract

This paper examines women involvement and empowerment in agricultural activities in Lahore Cantonment (Lahore Cantt), Punjab, Pakistan. The data on 118 women who were involved in agriculture activities were examined using mixed-method technique and descriptive statistics, chi-square, correlation and multiple regression analysis were used. The results indicate that the participation rates are high among women, however, due to existing socio-cultural and resource-based obstacles to empowerment, women are not yet empowered. The association was found to be significant in the land ownership and women decision making, education and participation, access to credit and extension services and the involvement in agricultural activities. The correlation matrix showed that there were positive relationships between key variables whereas regression analysis showed that land ownership, education, and access to credit were significant predictors of women empowerment. The paper highlights the need to change the law, access to resources and social support to improve agency of women in peri-urban agriculture. The policy suggestions comprise land rights reform, specific educational initiatives, and access to better resources so that sustainable women empowerment can be achieved.