Women’s Participation in Rural Development: A Case Study of the District Chakwal, Pakistan

In Pakistan, rural women play a crucial role in reducing food insecurity as food producers and processors. However, their participation in these activities constitutes only approximately 50% of the labour force. Rural women engage in agribusiness, animal rearing, poultry farming, and social relations but often face challenges due to limited resources and guidance. This results in losing lifetime opportunities for training, nutrition and Medicare. This study aimed to determine rural women’s involvement in rural development, specifically in Locale Chakwal, which comprises five tehsils: Kalar Kahar, Talagang, Chakwal, Chohasaidan Shah and Lawa. The data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire. The results showed that most rural women were involved in yield-creation activities such as cutting, knitting, woolening and drying farming produce. In the domesticated animal part, women produce yogurt, draining and milk stockpiling. The study highlighted an empowering reaction against gender preference in fields such as education and training. Most women chose daily training for their skill improvement, focusing on training in harvesting activities, animal rearing, poultry production and drying leafy foods.