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Preeti Verma1*, D.V. Singh2, Naresh Kumar Agrawal1, Saroj Chaudhary1 and Dheeraj Kumar Bisnoi1
1Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tonk, Banasthali Vidyapith
2ICAR-ATARI, Patna, Zone-IV
Email: preetiv335@gmail.com
Received-28.10.2025, Revised-16.11.2025, Accepted-26.11.2025
Abstract: The present study aimed to assess the impact of improved farm tools on drudgery reduction and operational efficiency of farm women engaged in groundnut cultivation. Demonstrations of a groundnut decorticator for pod dehulling and a hand wheel hoe one-lane weeder for weeding were conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banasthali Vidyapith, in selected villages of Tonk district. The performance of these tools was compared with traditional practices involving manual dehulling by hand and mouth and weeding using kudali. The results revealed a significant reduction in time and energy expenditure while performing dehulling and weeding operations with improved tools. Farm women reported enhanced ease of operation, reduced physical strain, and improved work comfort compared to conventional methods. The total drudgery index of farm women was notably lower with the use of improved implements, indicating their effectiveness in reducing workload and enhancing operational efficiency. The study highlights the potential of gender-friendly farm tools in improving the occupational well-being of farm women in groundnut production.
Keywords: Groundnut, Drudgery, Farm women, Groundnut decorticator, Cono weeder
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