A Study of Gender Perspectives on Farmers' Livelihood Resources in a Dryland Farming Community of Lombok Island, Indonesia

Abstract

Aim: A case study on Lombok Island, Indonesia, examined livelihood resources among rain-fed rice farmers from a gender perspective. Study Design: Using a descriptive approach, the study purposely selected dryland and rain-fed farming communities reliant on agriculture. Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in the southern part of Lombok Island between December 2023 to January 2024. Methodology: Data from 30 respondents (15 male, 15 female farmers) assessed livelihood resources across human, natural, financial, social, and physical aspects. Analysis employed categorical techniques and mode calculations. Results: Male farmers predominated in managing human resources and natural resources such as land and water ownership. Females excelled in household water use, technology adoption, and accessing financial aid. Both genders managed income and savings similarly, with males showing greater agricultural knowledge and communication skills. Conclusion: These insights underscore the nuanced gender dynamics in resource management and highlight the need for gender-responsive policies to foster sustainable livelihoods in vulnerable dryland communities.