Answer to Question #313357 in Economics for khangwelo Lovers

Question

Agricultural extension is about rural development and development is imminent and unavoidable. Describe the concept of rural development and its attributes. Use practical examples.

Answer 1

Rural development is a process aiming at the improvement of economic and social living conditions, focusing on a specific group of poor people in a rural area. The concept of rural development can be described by the following attributes:

1) size of the community. Since rural communities are small, the population is also low.

2) density of population. In village communities, the people have intimate relationships and face-to-face contact with each other. 

3) agriculture is the main occupation. Agriculture is the fundamental occupa­tion of the rural people and forms the basis of the rural economy. A farmer has to perform various agricultural activities for which he needs the cooperation of other members.

4) close contact with nature. The rural people are in close contact with nature as most of their daily activities revolve around the natural environment. 

5) homogeneity of the population. Most of the village inhabitants are connected with agriculture and its allied occupations, though people are belonging to different castes, religions, and classes.

6) social stratification. In rural society, social stratification is a traditional characteristic, based on caste. The rural society is divided into various strata based on caste.

7) social interaction. The frequency of social interaction in rural areas is com­paratively lower than in urban areas.

8) social mobility. Very often caste hierarchy determines the social status of the rural people.

9) social solidarity. In rural areas, the level of social solidarity is higher than in urban areas.

10) joint family, which regulates the behavior of individuals.