Literature Review: Existing Research on Assam's Rural Economy

The rural economy of Assam has attracted considerable academic interest due to its unique combination of agriculture, natural resources, and cross-border trade influences from neighboring countries. Various studies have been conducted to analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by the state's rural economy. This section compiles key research works, expert opinions, and policy reviews related to Assam's rural economy, providing a foundation for understanding current trends, gaps, and future prospects.

Key Research and Reports

1. Assam's Agricultural Economy and Rural Development

Several studies focus on the agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of Assam's rural economy. A comprehensive report by the National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) discusses agricultural productivity and rural development strategies. The report highlights Assam’s low productivity in rice and tea plantations and suggests methods for sustainable agricultural growth through better irrigation facilities and organic farming practices.

URL: http://nirdpr.org.in/

2. Impact of Floods on Assam's Economy

Assam's vulnerability to annual floods has been a recurring theme in economic research. A study published in the "International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction" (IJDRR) analyzed the economic losses caused by floods and their long-term impact on the rural population. The paper proposes flood-resilient infrastructure and better water management practices to minimize damages.

Journal Link: IJDRR

3. Cross-Border Trade and Assam’s Rural Economy

A 2022 research paper by the "Institute of South Asian Studies" (ISAS) examines the cross-border trade between Assam and neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan. The paper emphasizes how informal trade through river routes boosts local economies but also suggests the need for formal trade agreements to enhance revenue generation for the state.

URL: https://www.isas.nus.edu.sg/

4. MGNREGA's Role in Rural Employment

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) plays a crucial role in providing employment opportunities in Assam’s rural regions. A research paper by the "Economic and Political Weekly" (EPW) critically reviews the implementation of MGNREGA in Assam, revealing how bureaucratic inefficiencies and delays in wage payments have affected its impact on reducing rural poverty.

Journal Link: Economic and Political Weekly

5. Assam’s Tea Economy

The tea industry is an integral part of Assam’s rural economy. The book “The Tea Industry in Assam: Origin, Growth, and Development” by Ajit Kumar Neog provides an in-depth analysis of the industry's historical significance and contemporary challenges, including labor issues and global market fluctuations. The book argues for increased mechanization and diversification in tea plantations to sustain this sector.

Book Link: The Tea Industry in Assam

Expert Opinions and Reviews

1. Dr. Bhabesh Sharma on Rural Assam's Economic Diversification

Dr. Bhabesh Sharma, a rural economist, emphasizes the need for diversifying Assam’s rural economy beyond agriculture and tea production. In his keynote paper, "Beyond Agriculture: Strategies for Rural Assam," Sharma suggests investments in agro-processing industries and eco-tourism as potential game-changers for rural employment.

Research Paper: Beyond Agriculture

2. World Bank Review on Assam's Rural Electrification

The World Bank’s 2020 review on rural electrification in Assam indicates that access to electricity has significantly improved in the state’s rural regions over the past decade. However, the report points out the lack of reliable power infrastructure and the high cost of electricity in remote areas as barriers to further economic growth.

World Bank Report: World Bank - Assam Electrification

Applicable Statistics

• Agriculture’s Share of GSDP: Agriculture contributes around 17.3% to Assam's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) (Source: Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Assam).
• Flood Damage: Assam suffers annual flood-related losses estimated at over ₹2000 crores, impacting 3 million people every year (Source: Assam State Disaster Management Authority).
• Rural Electrification: 92% of Assam’s villages have access to electricity, but less than 70% receive reliable and continuous supply (Source: Ministry of Power).

Useful Books and References

• Neog, Ajit Kumar. The Tea Industry in Assam: Origin, Growth, and Development. Purbanchal Prakash, 2019. Amazon Link
• Sharma, Bhabesh. Beyond Agriculture: Strategies for Rural Assam. Assam University Press, 2020. PDF Link
• Goswami, Uddipana. No Place for Good People: Tales of Rural Assam. HarperCollins, 2021. HarperCollins Link

Conclusion

Research on Assam’s rural economy spans multiple dimensions, including agriculture, rural employment, disaster management, and cross-border trade. Despite various initiatives, the state faces challenges related to infrastructure development, natural calamities, and employment opportunities. By building on existing research and addressing gaps such as diversification and modernization, Assam’s rural economy holds potential for substantial growth in the coming years.

Data Collection for Promoting Sustainable Rural Non-Farm Employment Opportunities in Assam 

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