Hyderabad, March,08,2026: Telangana Minister Seethakka attended a Mega Rythu Mela organized by Jayashankar Agricultural University and highlighted the contribution of women farmers in agriculture. She also extended greetings to women on International Women’s Day while addressing the gathering.
Speaking at the event, the minister appreciated the organizers for setting up useful stalls for farmers and conducting the large-scale agricultural exhibition.
Seethakka said the celebrations this year are being held under the theme Give to Gain. She noted that the United Nations has declared the year as the Year of Women Farmers and stressed that women play a crucial role in food production.
According to the minister, around 60 to 80 percent of women are involved in agricultural activities. From sowing seeds to harvesting crops and bringing produce home, women contribute significantly to farming.
She said women are performing well in many sectors but their efforts are still not receiving the recognition they deserve. The Telangana government is working to economically empower women and increase their participation in agriculture and allied sectors.
Seethakka said International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but also a reminder of the struggles faced by women to gain equal rights. She referred to the efforts of socialist leader Clara Zetkin, who fought for the rights of working women.
The minister said women initially did not have voting rights and had to fight for basic equality. After years of struggle, the United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day.
She said the state government is conducting 30 types of health tests free of cost for women. The government has also launched the Stand With Her program to support and strengthen women.
Seethakka said women are central to society and that development is not possible without them. However, women still face challenges in many areas and the government is working to address these issues.
She highlighted the role of SERP in poverty eradication and said about 6.5 million women have been organized into a strong economic movement through self-help groups.
The minister urged women to join self-help groups to gain financial recognition and independence. The government is working with a goal of creating one crore women entrepreneurs in the state.
She said that in the past two years, bank loans worth 36000 crore rupees have been facilitated for women. Interest-free loans are also being provided to encourage women entrepreneurs.
Women who start businesses are being supported with financial assistance and other incentives. During the event, several women were honored and given a cash incentive of 25000 rupees in recognition of their hard work.
The minister encouraged every woman farmer to be part of a women’s group to access financial support for agriculture. She said the government is also providing loan insurance and accident insurance to ensure financial security for families.
Seethakka noted that women often work even harder than men in agricultural activities such as sowing, planting, and harvesting. She said it is society’s responsibility to recognize and respect their contribution.

