Unearthing Her Green Thumb: The Integral Role Of Women In Agriculture During The Chola Period

Abstract

Chola period is enriched with intensified agriculture. The role of women in agriculture during this period is presented in this article. Women were involved in all stages of crop cultivation starting from seed selection, seed treatment, sowing, intercultural operations, harvesting and post harvest activities. Research sources reveal the involvement of women in management of the farm and allied enterprises of agriculture namely livestock production, goat rearing and poultry. Women were entitled to maintain the farming enterprises along with their routine household activities. Women were highly capable of this dual role and thus exerting an impact in their social –economic status in the society. Traditional methodology was adopted in farming enterprises which facilitated sustainable agriculture in this period.