Women cultivate a new voice in Indian farm protests

Women have traditionally been the silent backbone of Indian agriculture - working the land without the influence that goes with it. Repeat studies have shown how they suffer from poverty, discrimination and domestic violence. About 85 percent of women in rural areas have some kind of agricultural activity, yet only 13 percent own land, according to anti-poverty activist group Oxfam.

In pic - In this picture, farmer Parminder Kaur, poses for a picture outside her tent at the Delhi-Haryana state border in Kundli.

Ranjana Kumari, who heads the Centre for Social Research, a Delhi-based non-profit group, said that while women do not own the land, they fear a cut in revenue will badly hit their households. "When the family income falls, it affects women's health and wellbeing the most. Less income also means more tension and violence at the hands of men. "That is why they are angry and vocal about these laws."

The women's active participation in the protests has been appreciated by the leaders. Rana Bhatti, who is from a farming family in Haryana state, said the protests were a way for women to show their strength. "I feel the time has come for us to take to the frontlines and steer the challenge against this arrogant government," said Bhatti as she led a group of women holding flags and placards. One read: "No farmers, no food, no future."

The farmers' cause has drawn an urban contingent of female supporters too. Dressed casually in jeans and a shawl, Jassi Sangha, 33, is an artist and filmmaker who has been at the protest since it started. She helps bring out a bi-weekly newspaper for the farmers and organises education for children in the camp.