कृषि आधुनिकीकरण एवं कृषि विविधीकरण का ग्रामीण सामाजिक संरचना तथा किसानों की सामाजिक-आर्थिक स्थिति पर प्रभाव: एक समाजशास्त्रीय अध्ययन

Abstract

This study examines the impact of agricultural modernization and agricultural diversification on rural social structure and the socio-economic condition of farmers in the Moradabad division. Agriculture remains the backbone of the rural economy in this region, and recent changes such as mechanization, use of high-yield variety seeds, irrigation technologies, crop diversification, and market-oriented farming have significantly influenced rural life. The study focuses on how these transformations affect traditional rural social structures, including caste relations, family patterns, occupational mobility, and community interactions. Agricultural modernization has led to changes in labor patterns, reducing dependence on traditional agricultural labor and increasing the role of machinery and hired skilled labor. Similarly, agricultural diversification has encouraged farmers to shift from subsistence farming to cash crops, horticulture, dairy, and allied activities, thereby improving income levels. However, the benefits of modernization are not evenly distributed. Small and marginal farmers often face challenges such as high input costs, lack of credit facilities, and market uncertainty. This has contributed to socio-economic disparities within rural society. The study also highlights how access to education, government schemes, and infrastructure influences farmers’ ability to adapt to these changes.

Overall, the research aims to understand the complex relationship between agricultural change and rural society, emphasizing both development outcomes and emerging inequalities in the Moradabad division.