The article discusses how women in rural China have less opportunity than men to work off the farm, leading to gender inequality in income and resources. Research shows that women tend to stay in agriculture while men move to non-farming jobs, impacting women's bargaining power and ability to support their families. Women's role as primary caregivers for children is a key reason for their lower participation in wage earning activities. Increasing women's share of off-farm employment could improve their well-being and that of their children.