Question

Write short note.

Problems of rural community

Answer 1

The problems of rural community are as follows:

1. Poverty: Majority of rural population lives under the grim shadow of poverty, unemployment as well as pitiable economic conditions. Large portions of the rural poor are small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers and rural artisans. 
2. Illiteracy: When compared to urban population, illiteracy continues to be rampant in rural areas. High illiteracy rates among children as well as adults continue even to this day due to inadequate budgetary provisions for rural education. The quality of education in rural areas is a matter of grave concern despite various programmes and provisions. 
3. Traditionalism, conservatism and superstitions: Rural India till date is called a conservative society since it still holds on to traditional mindsets and beliefs. There is usually a reluctance to change way of life and outlook due to habit and fear of the unknown.
4. Caste influence: The traditional rights, authorities and sanctions based on caste hierarchy may not be apparent today. However, it is so deeply entrenched in people’s minds that it permeates social interactions. Nevertheless, in the ordinary transactions of daily life, village people tend to cooperate with each other.
5. Farmers’ suicides: The phenomenon of suicide by farmers is especially worrisome for India because the majority of the workforce is dependent on agriculture for its livelihood. A large percentage of farmers who took their own lives were financially indebted. 
6. Lower status of women: A subordinate status is given to women. Patriarchal values and practices pervade all aspects of social life. This in turn feeds discriminatory practices and gender stereotyping. 
7. Family disputes: The conflict over land holdings is a common issue. Due to this, many joint families have broken and land has become divided to such an extent that it is hardly cultivable. Farmers suffer due such disputes and their children are then not motivated to continue farming on disputed land.