The 7th Annual Day celebration of BASAI (Bharat Agricultural Science and Innovation Association), held in New Delhi on June 13, brought together agricultural experts, industry leaders, women farmers, and policymakers from across the country. This year’s event was dedicated to the United Nations-declared International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, with a strong focus on recognizing the growing role and contribution of women in Indian agriculture.
Emphasis on Recognition and Opportunities for Women Farmers
The event began with the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address from BASAI President Sandeepa Kanitkar. She highlighted that the true picture of Indian agriculture remains incomplete unless the contributions of women farmers receive proper recognition and respect.
Chief Guest Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, emphasized that women’s participation in agriculture is closely linked to India’s food security and the strength of the rural economy. She stressed the need for greater empowerment of women in the sector.
Dr. Praveen Kumar Singh, Agriculture Commissioner at the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, shared his views on the increasing role of women in agriculture and the importance of improving their access to modern technologies.
Lakshmi Narayanan, Whole-Time Director of T. Stanes, and V. Ramachandra Kaundinya, Director of the company, also spoke about the need for inclusive growth and sustainable farming practices in the agricultural sector.
Launch of Special BASAI Publications and New Initiatives
Several important BASAI publications were launched during the event, including a commemorative edition of the BASAI Magazine, a special book dedicated to the International Year of the Woman Farmer, and a philanthropic stamp honoring women farmers.
The organization also announced the formation of various task forces aimed at promoting innovation and inclusive growth in agriculture.
How Women Are Reshaping Indian Agriculture?
One of the most engaging sessions of the event was a panel discussion titled “Women Shaping Indian Agriculture: Past, Present and Future.”
The panel featured Shabnam Hussain of Corteva Agriscience, Sangeeta Dawar of Syngenta India, Amrita Kumar, Director of Dayal Group and Renuka Diwan, Founder of Bioprime. The discussion was moderated by BASAI President Sandeepa Kanitkar.
The panel explored issues such as women’s access to technology, agricultural leadership, entrepreneurship, skill development, and their growing role in the future of farming. The speakers agreed that women farmers should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries but as active partners in driving agricultural transformation.
Honouring Women Leaders in Agriculture
Several awards were presented during the ceremony to recognize outstanding contributions by women in agriculture.
S.H.E. Krishi Shakti Award was conferred upon Arnima Tyagi (Uttar Pradesh), Santosh Devi (Haryana), Manisha Sunil Pingle (Maharashtra), Jyoti Pramod Patil (Maharashtra), Dr. Vasant Dhikale (Maharashtra), and Deepika Kumari (Rajasthan).
S.H.E. Agri-Technical Excellence Award was presented to Dr. Vimala Prakash and Dr. Medha Kulkarni.
S.H.E. Agri Leadership Award recognized Lakshmi Narayanan, Renuka Diwan, Amrita Kumar, and Supriya Singla for their leadership and contributions to the agricultural sector.
Special recognition was also given to the women of the Nagar family from Nacholi village in Faridabad, Haryana- Shyamwati, Ramwati, Tejpali, Sushila, and Sonu for their contributions to organic farming.
Women Farmers Share Stories of Change
Women farmers from different states shared their experiences and journeys during the event. Their stories demonstrated that women are no longer confined to supportive roles in farming; they are increasingly taking charge of decision-making, adopting innovative practices, and building successful agri-based enterprises.
In the concluding session, renowned speaker Dr. Seemah Sharma ‘Sarhad’ delivered an inspiring address on women’s self-confidence, leadership abilities and their role in driving social change.
S.H.E. Initiative: A New Vision for Agriculture
To commemorate the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, BASAI CEO Vipin Saini introduced the S.H.E. (Sustainability, Health, and Economy) Initiative. The initiative seeks to view agriculture not merely as a production system but as a sector deeply connected to environmental sustainability, public health, and economic development.
The three key pillars of S.H.E. are:
S – Sustainability: Promoting soil health, biodiversity conservation, and responsible management of natural resources.
H – Health: Ensuring healthy soils, safe food production, and improved public health outcomes.
E – Economy: Increasing farmers’ incomes, reducing production costs, and encouraging rural entrepreneurship.
According to BASAI, women play a critical role in strengthening all three pillars. Whether through seed conservation, organic farming, nutrition-sensitive agriculture, or rural entrepreneurship driven by self-help groups, women are at the forefront of agricultural transformation.
Beyond an Annual Celebration
BASAI 2026 was more than just an annual gathering. It emerged as a significant platform for bringing women’s contributions to agriculture into the national spotlight. The central message of the event was clear: if agriculture is to become sustainable, profitable, and future-ready, women farmers must be provided equal recognition, access to resources, and leadership opportunities.