President Mrs Pratibha Devisingh Patil today called for the empowerment of women in agriculture for overall economic development of the country. Speaking at the valedictory function of the Global conference of 'Women in Agriculture' in New Delhi today, Mrs Patil said to achieve the objectives of food security, it is necessary to bridge the gender gap in agriculture. She said it will be useful to form Mahila Kisan Mandals in every village to educate women on different aspects of agriculture and related activities.

Expressing concern over the migration of workers from agriculture to non-agricultural areas, she said there is a need to retain workers within its fold. Highlighting the role of information communication technology, she said it can provide access to new information on market ,trade, health and nutrition and will help farmers in taking rational decisions. This will also bring women into the mainstream of agricultural development and reduce gender disparity. Mrs Patil has also called upon scientists and extension professionals to think of innovations in rural areas to improve agricultural productivity. She said it is encouraging that the enrollment of girls in different degree level courses in agricultural universities is increasing.