Last Updated:February 18, 2026, 22:13 IST A Congress MLA in Karnataka urged government incentives for women marrying farmers, citing rural bride shortages and agricultural distress. A Congress MLA in Karnataka urged government incentives for women marrying farmers, citing rural bride shortages and agricultural distress.(Representative Image) A Congress legislator in Karnataka has sparked debate after claiming that many women are reluctant to marry farmers, urging the government to introduce financial incentives to encourage marriages in rural areas. Speaking during a discussion, the MLA said farming families are increasingly struggling to find brides for eligible men, as women prefer grooms with stable urban jobs. He argued that agriculture is no longer seen as a financially secure profession, making it difficult for farmers to find life partners. To address the issue, the lawmaker proposed that the government consider providing incentives or benefits to women who marry farmers. According to him, such measures could help strengthen rural communities and support the agricultural sector, which continues to face economic challenges. The remarks have triggered mixed reactions, with some backing the …