International Day of Rural Women 2025, History, Significance & More

Published on 22 September 2025 by

International Day of Rural Women 2025

The International Day of Rural Women happens every October 15 and is a special day to appreciate the important work of rural women worldwide. They play a big part in farming, making food, and developing rural areas. Sadly, their efforts often go unnoticed and aren’t valued enough.

History of International Day of Rural Women

The International Day of Rural Women was created to recognize and celebrate the important contributions of rural women to agriculture, food security, and rural development.

  • Since then, it has been observed every year to highlight the vital role of rural women in global development and sustainability.
  • On December 18, 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 62/136, officially recognizing the role of rural women.
  • The aim was to ensure that rural women receive proper recognition for their contributions to farming, families, and rural progress.
  • The first celebration of this day took place on October 15, 2008

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Significance of International Day of Rural Women

The International Day of Rural Women highlights the immense contribution of women in rural areas to agriculture, food security, and poverty eradication, while also calling for equal opportunities for their growth and empowerment.

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  • It also highlights their role in the eradication of rural poverty, ensuring sustainable development.
  • It is a global celebration that recognizes the hard work of rural women in feeding the world.
  • The day emphasizes the need to provide equal opportunities for women in rural areas.
  • It acknowledges the critical role of rural and indigenous women in agricultural and rural development.
  • The focus is on their contribution to improving food security at both local and global levels.
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Government Schemes Empowering Rural Women

To empower rural women and recognize their importance, various government programs have been launched in India. These initiatives aim to improve their education, health, safety, financial independence, and overall socio-economic status.

Scheme / InitiativeFocus / Benefit for Rural Women
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)Promotes education, survival, and empowerment of girls in rural areas.
Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK)Provides skill training, financial literacy, and employment support to rural women.
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)Offers financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women for health and nutrition.
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)Gives collateral-free loans to rural women to start or expand small businesses.
Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)Provides LPG connections to rural households, reducing health hazards from traditional cooking.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)Encourages savings for the education and future of girls in rural families.
One Stop Centre SchemeSupports rural women facing violence with medical, legal, and counseling aid.
Women Helpline SchemeOffers 24×7 emergency assistance for rural women in distress.
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)Provides vocational training and employment opportunities to rural women.
Mission ShaktiStrengthens women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and promotes financial and social empowerment.
Mahila Samman Saving Certificate SchemeEncourages women to save and invest for long-term financial security through a government-backed savings certificate.
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Key Takeaways:

Below are the key take aways:

  • Observed every year on October 15 to honor rural women worldwide.
  • Recognizes their crucial role in farming, food production, and rural development.
  • The UN General Assembly (resolution 62/136) officially recognized rural women on December 18, 2007.
  • First celebrated on October 15, 2008.
  • Aims to ensure proper recognition of rural women’s efforts in agriculture and family support.
  • Highlights their role in poverty eradication, food security, and sustainable development.
  • Focuses on providing equal opportunities for rural and indigenous women.
  • Acknowledges their vital contribution to local and global food security.
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