Women as small-scale producers often face significant challenges in accessing higher levels of the value chain, particularly markets due to the many barriers they encounter. Recognising these obstacles, Vikalpani has developed several models to economically empower rural women and amplify their voices in securing their economic rights.
One such model is the village-level farmers’ markets, where women farmers sell their produce weekly. These markets are organised and led by women’s societies registered under Vikalpani and operate according to established standards that ensure the sale of healthy, nutritious, and pesticide-free food. These markets not only serve as a platform for income generation but also offer a sustainable livelihood opportunity for rural women. Each society maintains a collective savings system, setting aside a portion of weekly earnings to create a common fund, which is later used for internal loans and to support the group’s needs.
Additionally, Vikalpani has conducted several capacity-building programs for women entrepreneurs, supporting them in value addition, product development, and direct marketing to customers, helping them bypass intermediaries and increase their earnings.
We believe that when women farmers are economically empowered, they are better positioned to actively engage in decision-making at both household and societal levels. This not only amplifies their influence within their communities but also enables them to challenge and overcome systemic inequalities and discrimination.
