Rural development through animal husbandry and women's empowerment

Rural areas play an active role in enhancing living standards and the overall economy, especially in countries such as India, where agricultural activities engage two-thirds of the population. This provides them with a source of revenue, food security, and social status, as livestock is important in this case. In India, 69% of livestock labour is provided by women, who make significant contributions to these activities despite their economic and social identities. Women can benefit from policies aimed at self-help groups (SHGs) and gender-smart training, as these help them achieve enhanced productivity and economic decision-making. The case of Smt. Abboju Jyothi is a perfect example of how women can change the livestock sector, especially in India, where livestock is of herding importance. By addressing issues such as land ownership, access to financial institutions, and fair employment for different genders, rural development can be achieved. Since female managers of livestock herds play a crucial role, such practices enable rural development and assist women in attaining economic growth.