Location Specific Intervention for the Empowerment of Coastal Women: A Case Study of Oyster Culture in Kerala

Abstract

The underlying causes of gender inequality are often related to social, cultural and economic factors. Consequently, the access of women to education, technical training and productive resources is inadequate, particularly for those women in the rural areas and employed in the informal sector. Economic empowerment is a tool to bring about greater inclusion in society. With these concepts in mind, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, funded a project in Kerala state that introduces edible oyster culture (Crassostrea madrasensis Preston) and its value-addition as a livelihood option for fisherwomen. Value addition of the oyster meat was also introduced to the women SHGs in this project. Value addition generate profits of INR 37.43, INR 97.49 and INR 106.37 from per kilogram of fish cutlets made, oyster meat and prawn pickle respectively. The aim of this paper is to highlight how needs based, location specific technology interventions can contribute to women’s empowerment in coastal areas in terms of personal, social, economic and community aspects.