Role of women gram panchayat members in agricultural development in Samastipur district of Bihar

This research investigates the role performance of women Gram Panchayat members in agricultural development within Samastipur district of Bihar, noted for its exemplary work compared to neighboring districts. The study, conducted through purposive and random sampling and focused on two blocks; Hasanpur and Pusa. A total of 120 respondents, including one Gram Pradhan and five ward members from each of the selected villages, were surveyed using a pre structured interview schedule in January and February 2024. Descriptive research design was employed to analyze data using arithmetic mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage, minimum, and maximum values. The study finds that most respondents are middle-aged, graduate-educated, and engaged in farming combined with business or service, with moderate land holding, income, and family size. Their information sources, mass media exposure, scientific orientation, risk orientation, and economic motivation were found medium levels. Findings reveal that 55.83% of women Gram Panchayat members exhibit medium-level performance in agricultural development activities, indicating substantial engagement but with room for improvement. About 28.34% show low performance levels, highlighting existing challenges, while 15.83% demonstrate high performance, reflecting significant contributions to local development. These members play a crucial role in equitable distribution of agricultural inputs, facilitating loans, enhancing storage facilities, and generating employment through MGNREGA. They also contribute to infrastructure development and farmer training. Despite their impactful contributions, there is a need for increased support and empowerment to address performance disparities and enhance their effectiveness in local governance. Future policies should aim to strengthen their capacities and optimize their role in driving positive agricultural development.