MULTAN: Rural women play a vital role in Pakistan’s agriculture, livestock management, household industries and rural economy, highlighting the need to improve their access to education, healthcare, skills training and economic opportunities.
Observed annually on October 15, the International Day of Rural Women highlights their contributions and the challenges they face, while calling for greater empowerment and equal opportunities.
In South Punjab, women in Multan, Muzaffargarh, Khanewal, Lodhran and Vehari contribute significantly to crop cultivation, cotton picking, vegetable production, livestock rearing and dairy farming. Many also support household incomes through embroidery, handicrafts, sewing and other home-based businesses while managing domestic responsibilities.
Dr Iffat Omar Bucha, a gynaecologist and former Population Welfare Officer in Multan, emphasized the importance of maternal and child healthcare, nutrition, family welfare and preventive medical services. She stressed that better healthcare facilities, trained medical personnel and awareness programmes were essential to improving rural women’s well-being.
Social worker Ayesha Chaudhry highlighted the need to recognize rural women’s contributions and expand their access to education, vocational training, employment and decision-making. She noted that greater awareness of women’s rights and improved economic opportunities could strengthen families and communities.
Despite their contributions, rural women continue to face barriers, including limited access to healthcare, education, transportation, financial resources and vocational training. Their work often remains undervalued, while limited control over assets and income restricts their financial independence.
Experts stress that access to modern farming techniques, financial assistance, entrepreneurship training, digital technology and markets can help women increase productivity and household earnings. Strengthening girls’ education and maternal and reproductive healthcare is equally important, particularly in underserved areas.
The International Day of Rural Women serves as a reminder that empowering women through education, healthcare, skills development and economic inclusion is essential to reducing poverty, improving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural growth. Coordinated efforts by government institutions, civil society and local communities are crucial to ensuring rural women receive the recognition, resources and opportunities they deserve.