Rural Economy Research Articles

ҚАЗАҚСТАНДАҒЫ ЭКОЛОГИЯЛЫҚ ТУРИЗМНІҢ НЕГІЗГІ БАҒЫТЫ РЕТІНДЕ АГРОТУРИЗМНІҢ ДАМУ БОЛАШАҒЫ

Ecotourism is the fastest growing and most sought after type of tourism in the world today. In turn, agritourism is a priority direction of ecological tourism. The demand for agritourism is constantly growing, so there is a need to develop this type of tourism in Kazakhstan. In recent years, active urbanization has led to the fact that urban residents are increasingly drawn to nature. The Republic of Kazakhstan has a huge number of prerequisites for the development of agritourism in its vast territory. Throughout Kazakhstan there are many villages with a rich cultural and historical heritage, in which people have been leading a traditional way of life since ancient times. The original culture, traditional way of life, local rural flavor combined with natural nature, picturesque landscapes, as well as diverse flora and fauna can be of interest to both foreign and Kazakhstani tourists. The development of rural tourism can benefit the countryside by protecting weak untouched landscapes, elevate the status of poor villages, increase the importance of nature and instill an ecological culture in the population. Resources for the development of agritourism in the Republic of Kazakhstan are available in all regions of the country, so the prospects for the development of this type of tourism in Kazakhstan are great. In the very near future, agritourism in Kazakhstan may become a sector of economic activity that creates conditions for the inflow of new funds into the rural economy, as well as become a tool for sustainable development.

The Role of AI in Transforming Local Economies: Exploring How AI Technologies Are Impacting Local Businesses and Labor Markets

Abstract: AI is emerging as a key disruptor of local economies. The impact of AI technologies including machine learning, automation and precision farming in reshaping local business landscape, unlocking innovation, enhancing productivity and creating net new jobs, is yet to be fully appreciated. This paper provides an analysis of the role of AI in revitalising local economies: how AI technologies are enabling small and medium sized enterprises (SME) to improve productivity, how rural economies can overcome labour shortages and supply chain issues and how to realise AIs transformative potential in the near term. It goes on to discuss the impact of AI on labour markets, the creation of net new jobs in data and drone related occupations and need for reskilling and upskilling. It also discusses the role of local governments in encouraging AI adoption through public-private partnerships, tax incentives and infrastructure improvements. The paper concludes with a discussion about how AI shapes the future of work, the need to address the digital divide and the role of AI in fostering sustainable economic development at the local level. This paper analyses the impact of AI on productivity, consumer engagement, supply chain optimisation and workforce transformation.

Do Youth Work in Agriculture? Short-Term Dynamics of on-Farm Rural Youth Employment in Tanzania and Malawi

We examine the short-term dynamics of on-farm rural youth employment in Tanzania and Malawi and its implications for development policy. Employment dynamics are assessed as the mobility between on-farm and off-farm occupations using nationally representative longitudinal data from four periods between 2010 and 2021. Most of the rural youth engaged in farming with high stability over time. In both countries, about 85 per cent of rural youth engaged in farming in 2010/11 and a significant majority remained in farming in subsequent periods. On-farm employment of female youth was more stable than that of males; it was higher and more stable for those owning land. We also discovered a considerable mobility of youth between on-farm and off-farm occupations, but the movement into on-farm employment outpaced the movement out of it. While the high stability of on-farm employment may be explained by underemployment or poor prospects in the non-agricultural sector, the considerable inter-sector mobility reflects the significantly diverse livelihood strategies of rural youth. Policies to employ and keep youth in agriculture while supporting their economic diversification strategies are needed to strengthen the sector and the broader rural economy by improving youth access to critical resources, and an enabling environment.

Youth Well-Being and Economic Vitality: Fostering Sustainable Development Through Green Leisure Sports

This study delves into the transformative potential of low-carbon leisure education (LCLE) in promoting sustainable development within rural lake regions, focusing particularly on its impact on youth well-being and regional economic vitality. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 650 participants and conducted interviews with experts, visitors, and locals to gauge the effectiveness of LCLE initiatives. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between LCLE engagements and improvements in the leisure environment, economic development, and ecological conservation. However, the study reveals a youth welfare divide, whereby younger individuals are unable to fully benefit from LCLE programs due to gaps in environmental consciousness and accessibility. The paper proposes a holistic approach to LCLE that includes enhancing environmental awareness among youth, making participation in low-carbon leisure activities more accessible and affordable, and fostering a culture of sustainable enjoyment. The expected outcomes suggest strengthened rural economies, enriched leisure and ecological environments, and a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle for the younger population. This research underscores the importance of integrating educational initiatives into rural development strategies, thereby contributing to the knowledge economy through innovative approaches to sustainability and youth engagement in rural settings.

Exploring the Potential of Agritourism: A Gateway to Sustainable Development in Kumaun Region of Indian Central Himalayas

Agritourism, a fusion of agriculture and tourism, is a new ray of hope for the sustainable development of rural regions livelihoods, economies, and other related sectors. This concept combines both aspects, with the potential to provide economic benefits to rural livelihoods and enrich the experience for tourists who visit the place. Agritourism has potential as a catalyst for sustainable development in the Kumaun region of Uttarakhand state, which is the eastern part of the state, boasts rich scenic natural beauties, cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and all above organic and traditional agricultural practices. The paper explores existing agritourism initiatives in the Kumaun region, ranging from farm stays to culinary experiences. and analyzes the economic benefits, challenges, and prospects of agritourism. This abstract underscore the transformative power of agritourism in encouraging sustainable development in rural areas of the Kumaun region while preserving cultural heritage, promoting environmental conservation, and enhancing socio- economic well-being. Keywords: agritourism, agriculture, Kumaun, economic development.

Greenhouse-gas abatement on Australian dairy farms: what are the options?

The Australian dairy industry contributes significantly to the rural economy, but must reduce its greenhouse-gas emissions to remain competitive in a global market that is starting to prioritise a low carbon footprint. Demand for improved environmental, social and governance performance from supply chains creates an imperative for research to deliver options for farmers to make reductions in their environmental footprint. Given the rapidly evolving nature of greenhouse-gas abatement research, this critical review provides an update on the state of the research relevant to Australian dairy systems and identifies research gaps that must be addressed if there is to be widespread on-farm adoption. Current research suggests that Australian dairy farms could theoretically abate enteric methane by 40–50%, with about another 5–10% reduction in whole-farm greenhouse-gas emissions being possible by flocculating or covering stored effluent. Fertiliser- and urine-patch management strategies could substantially reduce direct and indirect nitrous oxide emissions, but by variable amounts subject to local conditions. However, few abatement options are currently cost-effective for farmers. Significantly more research investment is required to facilitate the on-farm adoption of strategies, particularly to reduce enteric methane and improve the efficiency of nitrogen cycling. Improved understanding is required of the influences on each strategy’s abatement potential and interactions with economically important traits in grazing systems, the effect of combining abatement strategies, and systems by which strategies can be implemented cost-effectively on farms. The challenge for research is to consider how the implementation of cost-effective abatement options can be refined for grazing dairy systems to maintain the position of Australian dairy in the global market.

Consumer preferences toward new circular bioeconomy agri‐food products

AbstractThe integration of circular bioeconomy (CB) principles into food production is key for a sustainable food sector. This research analyzes consumers' preferences for food products that include CB‐related attributes; namely, zero (plastic/bio) waste generation, carbon neutrality, sustainable water use and soil management, biodiversity conservation, and contribution to the rural economy. A novel approach is applied, combining best‐worst scaling choice experiments with contingent valuation and using a scale‐adjusted latent class model specification. The results reveal consumers have intense preferences for CB attributes in food, especially those related to plastic waste management, sustainable water use, rural development, and biodiversity. Four different consumer classes are identified according to their preferences toward CB attributes (Eco‐multifunctionals, Utilitarians, Sustainable agrarians, and Circulars—the latter two newly identified here). Willingness to pay varies by attribute and class. Relevant implications are drawn for businesses, especially about potential differentiation marketing strategies.

Site Suitability Analysis for Farmlands in Agro-Climatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh using Geo-Spatial Techniques

Abstract: The Anantapur region has moderately healthy vegetation, which produces impressive biodiversity, climate variations, and a variety of wildlife and flora. As a result, the southern areashave a lot of room for agricultural growth to support rural economies. The Northern part's potential for agriculture in this region has been limited by several physical obstacles, including ahigh slope and elevation, built-up area, a lack of irrigation infrastructure, dry soil, poor rainfall, and socio-economic problems. Planning the expansion of agricultural output can benefit from researching a location's suitability for a particular purpose. Using a GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making technique based on DEM and Landsat 8 satellite data, AHP will be utilised to evaluate site suitability for agricultural production in unused areas. A pairwise comparison matrix will be used to set the weights. It will help to determine whether hilly terrain is suitable for farming using the study's techniques, approaches, and findings.

Study on High-quality Development Strategy of Rural Economy Under the Strategy of Agriculture, Rural Areas and Farmers

With the in-depth implementation of the "three rural" strategy, the high-quality development of rural economy has become an important goal to achieve rural revitalization. This paper starts with the current situation of rural economic development, analyzes the main challenges facing rural economy, including infrastructure construction lag, unreasonable industrial structure and brain drain and innovation ability. On this basis, the core strategy of high-quality development of rural economy is put forward from three aspects: industrial revitalization, ecological revitalization and talent revitalization. By optimizing the industrial structure and promoting the integration of the primary, secondary and tertiary industries, the agricultural production efficiency is improved; Emphasizing green agriculture and environmental governance to promote sustainable development; Attention should be paid to attracting high-quality talents and improving rural education and training systems to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in rural areas. Through comprehensive measures, we will strive to provide systematic support for the high-quality development of the rural economy and help the smooth implementation of the rural revitalization strategy.

Watering the Seeds of the Rural Economy: Evidence from Groundwater Irrigation in India

ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of private investment in groundwater extraction for irrigation on the spatial and sectoral distribution of rural economic activity in India. Exploiting a kink in access to groundwater, generated from an absolute technological constraint on the operational capacity of irrigation pumps with depth of the water table, there is evidence of a significant improvement in agricultural production accompanied with modest consumption gains. Groundwater extraction causes a substantial increase in population density, but has no effect on the employment rate or labor reallocation between sectors of the economy. Furthermore, irrigated agriculture appears to provide additional employment opportunities for waged labor from surrounding non-irrigated villages.

The Impact of Digital Rural Construction on Rural Revitalization-Empirical Evidence from Chinese County Panel Data

High-quality economic growth across society is increasingly being driven by the quickly evolving digital economy, with digital villages integrated into various aspects of rural development, construction, and governance, providing essential digital support for achieving comprehensive rural revitalization. By employing county-level panel data from China spanning 2018 to 2020, the Rural Revitalization Index was constructed and applied at the county level, and empirical tests were performed in combination with the Digital Village Index. The results demonstrate that the establishment of digital villages greatly enhances the progress of rural revitalization, with the sub-dimensions of digitalized rural economies and rural lifestyles playing particularly positive roles. Based on this, the mechanisms through which digital village construction empowers rural revitalization were examined, with the process being summarized as “factor aggregation–entities cultivation–market integration.” Further analysis demonstrates that the empowerment effect of digital village construction on rural revitalization is more pronounced in counties that are not major grain producers, have longer road networks, and are located closer to Hangzhou. Thus, it is essential to continue advancing digital village initiatives, identify integration points based on rural functional roles and resource endowments, and explore pathways to fully realize their empowering effects on rural revitalization.

The Impact of Urbanization on Rural Population Structure in China

Urbanization has been speeding up in China since reform and opening up policies were promoted, which promotes the progression of rural economy, but furthermore provides a certain degree of negative impact on the rural population structure. On the basis of summarizing the concept of urbanization, this study provides a thorough analysis of China's recent rural population structure and urbanization trend, and finally concludes that the quickening pace of urbanization in China makes the rural population structure face some problems and challenges. This study also offers some thoughts and recommendations in this area. At the same time, when analyzing the trend and population structure, by comparing and summarizing the secondary data and relevant literature, this paper concludes that China's urbanization has caused problems such as talent shortage in rural areas, rural aging and gender structure imbalance of the left-behind population. To solve these problems, China should establish a sound and perfect social security system and encourage the integration of rural and urban development. China ought to also establish a sound pension system and optimize the population structure; in rural areas, the promotion of respect for women has been strengthened and relevant laws have been introduced to gradually eliminate gender discrimination. It is beneficial to promote the national economy, cultural development.

Rural Economic Development Strategy through Village Tourism Development with the Exploitation of Local Potential (Empirical Study in Kebon Ayu Village, West Lombok)

This study aims to examine and analyze the appropriate strategies developed by stakeholders in building and developing rural tourism areas, especially Kebon Ayu Village as one of the mainstay tourist villages in West Lombok. The development of rural areas is important to create community welfare as well as to play the role of residents to take responsibility for maintaining the preservation of the surrounding natural environment. The research approach used is a qualitative descriptive approach based on field observation with the support of secondary data. The collected data is then analyzed using a SWOT analysis approach by systematically identifying various internal and external factors to formulate the desired development strategy. The logic built is how to maximize strengths and opportunities but at the same time minimize weaknesses and threats. The results of the study show that the tourist attraction of Kebon Ayu Village has enough potential to be developed because of the support of the beautiful rural nature and the surrounding hills that surround it. It has a natural rural atmosphere, supporting agro-tourism and culinary tourism potential, with an attractive green expanse of hills, a strategic position as a buffer for the district capital (Gerung) and its safe and comfortable environment. But on the other hand, several things need to be improved, such as the arrangement of the residential environment, waste handling, and concern for tourist facilities such as garbage cans, ATMs, toilets, mini markets, prayer rooms, and others. Supporting facilities and infrastructure need to receive attention so that they are more organized, such as the construction of environmental roads, street lighting, waterways, folk craft coaching, water game spots, outbound, and camping grounds. If all of these things can be overcome properly, then the Kebon Ayu Village tourist attraction will have its own attraction and become a mainstay tourist destination that can compete with other village tourist attractions.

A Holistic Review on Impact of Demonetization on Animal Husbandry Sector

The impact created in the year 2016 by demonetization policy on India's animal husbandry industry analyse different effects which are critically analysed using different studies. The goal of demonetization, which invalidated ₹500 and ₹1000 banknotes, was to suppress corruption, burden the use of counterfeit money, and encourage online transactions [1,2]. Animal husbandry holds as strongest pillar of India's rural economy, and the current study of demonetization examines the short- and long-term effects on it. The short term effects like Price volatility, lack of liquidity, and decreased market demand particularly impacted small-scale livestock, dairy, and poultry producers [3]. The studies also suitably reveal that farmers faced many significant challenges, including loss of livelihood, disrupted supply chains, and restricted access to banking facilities, increased debt, and limited farm investments [4]. The Long-term effects included a rise in the use of formal banking, a move toward digital payments, and structural modifications to cooperatives. The present agriculture and allied industries scenario, which mainly depends on cash transactions, experienced significant disruptions in labor payments, input procurement, and livestock sales etc [2]. The report also assesses government actions, such as initiatives to promote digital payments, sector-specific relief programs, and financial inclusion The policy recommends the need for more efforts to raise digital literacy in rural communities, improved rural banking infrastructure in order to improve the sector's adaptability to future economic uncertainties [5,3].

Contribution of provisioning ecosystem services of homestead trees to rural livelihoods in Kashmir Himalaya, India

Aim: To quantify provisioning ecosystem services (PES) derived from homestead trees, estimate their economic value and contribution to rural livelihoods, and ascertain socio-economic determinants of household PES income from homestead trees in district Budgam of Kashmir. Methodology: In this study 106 homesteads were selected across 12 sample villages using multi-stage random sampling. Data were gathered through structured interviews, focus group discussions, homestead inventories, non-participant observations, and rapid market assessments. The data were analyzed through descriptive and analytical statistics. Results: The mean value of PES of homestead trees was ₹ 14349.27 per household per year, which was composed of fruits (45.54%), fuel wood (20.50%), tree browse (18.15%), timber (8.06%), and wicker (7.75%). PES of homestead trees constituted 4th important component of rural economy, accounting 16.23% of the average household's income. ANCOVA indicated that social membership, family size, family labour, farm size, livestock holding, main occupation, wealth status and annual income were potent predictors of household PES income from homestead trees. The R2 (0.872) of the ANCOVA model indicated that socio-economic determinants accounted for 87.20% of the variation in homestead trees' domestic PES revenue. Interpretation: Findings suggested that PES income from homestead trees is a vital intervention for socio-economic development, livelihood diversification, and forest conservation; hence, policy must be implicated towards a sustainable supply of PES from homestead trees by promoting homestead tree holdings. Key words: Homestead trees, Kashmir Himalaya, Livelihood, Provisioning ecosystem services

Based on the Rural Homestay Landscape Design Strategy Under the Rural Revitalization Strategy

In the context of rural revitalization strategy, as an important part of rural tourism, its landscape design is of great significance for improving the rural image and promoting the development of rural economy. This paper aims to explore the landscape design strategy of rural homestay based on the rural revitalization strategy, by analyzing the existing problems in the current rural homestay landscape design, and put forward the corresponding optimization strategy, in order to realize the sustainable development of rural homestay landscape and the prosperity of rural economy.

Analysis of the Current Situation and Countermeasures for College Students Returning to Employment and Entrepreneurship under the Background of Rural Revitalization

With the in-depth implementation of the rural revitalization strategy, an increasing number of college students are choosing to return to their hometowns for employment and entrepreneurship, becoming an important force in promoting rural development. This paper aims to explore the current situation of college students returning to their hometowns for employment and entrepreneurship against the backdrop of rural revitalization, as well as the challenges they face. Through an analysis of relevant policies, data, and case studies, it was found that college students currently face issues such as insufficient funding, unstable market conditions, and a lack of skills and experience during their return. To address these challenges, this paper proposes corresponding countermeasures, including strengthening policy support, providing vocational training, utilizing social resources, and encouraging innovative cooperation. It is hoped that this research can provide references for policymakers and college students, promoting the sustainable development of the rural economy.

РОЛЬ СОЦИАЛЬНОЙ ИНФРАСТРУКТУРЫ В АГРАРНОМ ТУРИЗМЕ

This publication substantiates the hypothesis that agricultural tourism and the social infrastructure of rural areas have a mutual influence on each other, forming a synergistic socio-economic effect. The social infrastructure of the village is considered as part of the system of ensuring a high quality of life and an indicator of the level of development of the management of the labor and social spheres of the rural economy. Agrotourism is regarded as the most important driver of the development of rural regions of a country such as the Republic of Kazakhstan, which for many years was considered agro-industrial. Both spheres are closely connected, as shown by statistical analysis. In order for the development of tourism and the social sphere in rural areas of Kazakhstan to be sustainably effective and have positive dynamics, according to the authors, an optimal management mechanism is needed, the scheme of which was proposed in the study.

Retraction Note: The intersection of China’s rural economy, renewable energy, and carbon neutrality

Retraction Note: The intersection of China’s rural economy, renewable energy, and carbon neutrality

Current scenario of milk production in the North-eastern states of India: Challenges and mitigation strategies to address milk shortfall

Livestock husbandry is an inseparable part of the rural economy of Northeastern (NE) states. The local market demand for milk is expanding, indicating the need for intervention in dairy development. This study focussed on the current status of milk production and the challenges faced in improving dairy production. Secondary data were collected from the Livestock Census (2019) and Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (2019 and 2023), Government of India. The results revealed that total milk production in the NE states was 1608.04 thousand tonnes in 2022-23, accounting for only 0.70% of the country’s milk production during the same year. The compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of milk in the NE states was 1.59%, significantly lower than that in India (3.83%). Among NE states, Tripura registered the highest CAGR in milk production (5.2%), followed by Meghalaya (3.51%), Assam (2.42%), and Sikkim (0.01%). The remaining NE states experienced negative growth. Except for Sikkim, the per capita milk availability in the NE states was considerably lower than that in India. Additionally, there were significant gaps in meeting milk requirements according to the ICMR recommendations in these states. Mizoram had the highest shortfall of milk (-81.78%), followed by Nagaland (-79.54%), Manipur (-79.45%), Meghalaya (-74.26%), Arunachal Pradesh (-73.13%), Assam (-74.02%), and Tripura (-48.85%) during 2022-Sikkim had a surplus milk production of 15.70%. Addressing this shortfall represents substantial market potential opportunity to expand the milk market across all NE states, thereby enhancing livelihoods, food security, and the socio-economic status of millions of people.