nternational Day of Rural Women is being observed today across the globe. The day recognizes the role of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.

International recognition of the vital role of rural women was first recognised during the 4th United Nations World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995, when several international organisations launched World Rural Women's Day.

In December 2007 the UN General Assembly decided that the particular role of rural women should be highlighted by making 15th October 2008 the first International Day of Rural Women.

Rural women play a critical role in the rural economies of both developed and developing countries. In most parts of the developing world they participate in crop production and livestock care, provide food, water and fuel for their families.

In addition, they carry out vital functions in caring for children, older persons and the sick. Empowering rural women is crucial for ending hunger and poverty. By depriving women of their rights and opportunities, a better future for their children and societies is denied.

This is why in India, the Centre has also initiated several schemes for the empowerment of rural women. It include Sanchar Shakti scheme for rural women. The scheme is an attempt to bridge the digital divide, it provides useful information to women about health, social issues and government schemes over their mobile phones.