SERICUL TURE AND THE PROCESS OF CHANGE - Institute for ...

specific recognition, depending on the category of people that are
generally associated with such function. This is borne out of a preconceived
notion about certain stereo-types, which are nonnally
attributed to the powerless. Any change in the perception of social
function of the individuals is reflected in social status. In the process of
achieving a higher status, as dealt with earlier while discussing the
authority relations, there are some self-processes taking place. These
processes begin with a self realisation of one's worth and work
contribution. This is followed by a gain in self-confidence, which yields
to self-assertion. Cltimately, it results in self-dignity and self-fulfilment.
Status-impact on women can be observed from their level of
access to some of the crucial resources of livelihood and human
eXJstence These include physical resources such as land, credit and
markeung as also intellectual resources of infonnation and skill. At a
higher plane, it is fwther manifested in the power to control income and
to take independent decisions. Consequently, all these are reflected in
their access to mobility, leisure and entertainment. In simple tenns, it is
manifested through recognition, either verbal or non-verbal, resulting in
self fulfilment and bliss.
Land is one of the crucial economic inputs of rural farming and a
symbol of power. Women in India hardly have any access to this crucial
resource Lack of such accessibility reflects in their low status in the
household. Because of this, women also become deprived of many other
benefits For instance, a woman is not recognised as a sericulture
entrepreneur unless she owns some land. She cannot avail of any credit
facilities LlI1less she can pledge land owned by her. The initiative of the
175