Women’s Access to Productive Resources: A Case Study of Mid-Hill Sub-Humid Zone of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the access of men and women to productive resources, focusing on three aspects: ownership of assets, access to credit, and decision-making regarding lending sources. Data was gathered from the mid-hill sub-humid zone of Himachal Pradesh. The results revealed that a significant portion of the women surveyed did not have ownership rights to land, whether agricultural or non-agricultural. Instead, joint ownership of assets other than land was prevalent in the area. Access to credit, a key factor in women's empowerment, showed that female respondents were more likely to rely on friends, relatives, or informal credit groups. Regarding decision-making on credit, joint decision-making was common in selecting credit sources. The study suggests that strict enforcement of existing laws is necessary to ensure women's property rights, and efforts should be made to promote ownership of assets to enhance women's empowerment and household livelihood security. Additionally, measures should prioritize easy access to formal credit for women, and the formal credit system should be expanded to reach those in need.