ABSTRACT
The role of the State is important in determining the status of women. The State, through its various policies, programmes, rules and regulations, shapes social relations and economic activities. State interventions impact not only broad social relations, including economic activities, but also intrahousehold relations and the social status of various actors. Awareness is the first step towards effective implementation of State-sponsored programmes. Given the enormity of the problems and strong grip of vested interests over the system, it is unlikely that effective and meaningful implementation of government interventions is possible without awareness among beneficiaries. Extension services play a crucial role in realizing the potential of human efforts. It helps apply scientific knowledge in real life situations. The positive contribution of extension services is well known and well recognized, says the AEO, Shahjahanpur. The State, through its various programmes, gives the impression that it really cares about the poor and marginal including the small and marginal farmers.
