Which is the Largest Agriculture Research Institute in India? A Sociological Perspective
As a researcher trying to understand the intricate webs that bind individuals to the structures around them, one can’t help but wonder how deeply societal norms, gender roles, and cultural practices shape not just our personal lives, but the very institutions we build. Agriculture, as a fundamental part of human existence, is no exception. It carries with it not just the science of food production, but the weight of history, gender dynamics, and cultural values that impact both those who shape it and those who benefit from it. In India, agriculture research is led by some large institutions, but when we consider the largest, we are often forced to think beyond the physical size of the institution and look at its social role.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), with its vast network of institutions and research centers, stands out as the largest agriculture research body in India. However, the question arises: What does the dominance of such a large institution reveal about our social structures and the roles we assign to agriculture and its research? Through a sociological lens, examining ICAR and its impact on the agricultural landscape offers an opportunity to reflect on how gender roles, cultural practices, and societal norms influence agricultural science and, by extension, the way we understand and practice agriculture in India.
Toppling Gender Norms in Agricultural Research
Historically, agriculture in India, much like in many parts of the world, has been shaped by deeply ingrained gender roles. Men have typically been associated with the technical and structural aspects of farming—land management, crop selection, and market interactions. Women, on the other hand, have often been relegated to relational roles, managing household-based agricultural activities, dealing with the preservation and processing of food, and taking care of the community’s social needs. These roles, although crucial, have often been undervalued in the larger agricultural discourse.
When we look at the largest agricultural research institution in India, ICAR, we begin to notice how these gendered expectations still play a role, albeit less overtly, in how research is designed and carried out. Men dominate the leadership positions in ICAR, and much of the research has historically been geared towards improving agricultural efficiency in ways that primarily benefit male-dominated sectors, such as large-scale farming or crop production for the market.
However, things are changing. The rise of gender-sensitive agricultural research and the inclusion of women in leadership roles within ICAR is slowly breaking down these barriers. Women are increasingly being recognized not only for their contributions to agricultural practices within the home but also for their role in scientific research, policy-making, and agricultural innovation. But even today, the societal narrative often frames men as the “providers” in agriculture, and women are frequently excluded from the technological and economic benefits of advancements in the field.
The Role of Social Norms in Shaping Agricultural Research
Agriculture, in many rural areas of India, is still seen through the lens of traditional social norms. The family unit is central to the way agriculture is practiced, and this structure is often gendered. While men tend to handle the production aspects—cultivating land, applying fertilizers, and harvesting—women engage in the relational aspects, such as organizing the family, ensuring food security, and processing crops. The division of labor within the agricultural space often mirrors broader societal norms, where men are seen as economic actors and women as caretakers.
This gendered division of labor is evident in agricultural research as well. Much of the agricultural policy and research historically has been focused on maximizing productivity in ways that align with the economic model of agriculture, largely designed by men for a male-dominated farming sector. However, the focus is shifting. ICAR’s efforts now include addressing the needs of women farmers, who, despite their crucial role in food security, remain underrepresented in agricultural policy and research discussions.
Moreover, cultural practices deeply embedded in agricultural traditions influence the way research is conducted. For example, traditional farming techniques, which may prioritize community-based crop sharing or organic farming methods, are sometimes dismissed in favor of more “modern” methods, such as high-yield hybrid seeds or intensive chemical fertilizers. These practices often cater to the needs of the market and larger agricultural structures, which tend to overlook or undervalue the traditional knowledge systems that women often maintain and pass down through generations.
Structural Functions and Relational Roles: A Sociological Analysis
In a typical sociological framework, society is understood as composed of structures and roles. Men, often associated with structural roles, play the part of economic producers—those who work the land, make decisions, and engage in the market. Women, on the other hand, are typically seen as relational figures, nurturing social ties and ensuring community cohesion. In the context of agricultural research, these structural and relational roles continue to shape the way research is conducted, the questions that are asked, and the priorities that are set.
The generalization of structural roles for men and relational roles for women is also reflected in the ways ICAR and similar institutions design their research. The research, which is largely driven by men, tends to focus on maximizing production and improving economic outcomes through mechanization, technology, and chemical inputs. While these are important goals, they do not always address the relational needs of rural households, such as sustainable farming practices, crop diversification, or the preservation of traditional agricultural knowledge.
Furthermore, the lack of women in top leadership positions in agricultural research institutions is a reflection of broader societal norms that place women in supportive or secondary roles. Even as ICAR has made strides in increasing female participation, these deeply embedded cultural patterns continue to affect the direction and outcomes of agricultural research.
Conclusion: Rethinking Agricultural Research Through a Sociological Lens
As we consider the largest agricultural research institute in India—ICAR—through a sociological perspective, we are forced to acknowledge the complex relationship between social norms, gender roles, and the advancement of agricultural science. While ICAR plays a vital role in improving food security, agricultural productivity, and rural livelihoods, its structure and focus have historically been shaped by gendered expectations of work and societal roles.
As we move forward, it is crucial to ask: How can agricultural research, and specifically the work done by ICAR, evolve to better reflect the relational roles that women play in agriculture? Can we bridge the gap between structural roles and relational responsibilities to create a more inclusive, sustainable agricultural future?
These are questions that all of us—whether researchers, policymakers, or everyday individuals—must grapple with if we are to create a more equitable and just society. I invite you to reflect on your own experiences: How do your cultural practices, gender roles, and societal expectations influence your view of agriculture? How can we work together to challenge these norms and create a more inclusive and balanced agricultural system?