The coconut is one of the easiest crops to grow requiring minimal care to thrive, but many rural women farmers are shut out of this lucrative business.

Dr. Sarala Gopalan, who works with women coconut farmers in Southern India says these women need to be recognized, so that they can access valuable resources including technology that makes the job easier.

Dr. Gopalan explains to UN Radio's Chuck Appel how she hopes that the Commission on the Status of Women will help to bring about an attitudinal change in society to include women as coconut farmers.

Duration: 4'39"