Abstract
In recent days, FPOs have emerged as an effective tool of aggregation in
Indian agriculture. However, the role of women in FPOs is not significant. Women's access to
resources, financing, and markets can be enhanced by encouraging their involvement in FPO.
Therefore, encouraging women to participate in FPO leads to their empowerment, which in
turn promotes inclusive agricultural development, the reduction of poverty, and increased
food security. The present study was conducted for the Board of Directors of NABARD
NABARD-promoted FPOs in Telangana state. The samples were selected randomly from
mixed FPOs and women FPOs i.e., 60 men BoDs and 60 women BoDs from mixed FPOs and
60 women BoDs from women FPOs. Thus constituting to the sample of 180 respondents. The
data was collected using a well-structured and pre pre-tested interview schedule. The chi chi-
square analysis of the results showed that personal, institutional, and societal factors were
affecting gender participation in FPOs. Cent (100.00 %) per cent of men and women BoDs in
mixed FPO suggested that, to reduce gender disparities there should be proper coordination
between the FPO BoDs, women inclusion as compulsory members in all activities, and
encouragement from other BoDs. Cent (100.00 %) per cent of the women BoDs in women
FPOs suggested that including women as compulsory members in all activities, considering
the decision of women in all economic aspects, increase in access to control over resources,
encouragement of husbands for women's social involvement, encouragement from other
BoDs reduce gender disparities in FPO.