Journal of Social Review and Development

Economic shifts and financial strain: Karnataka farmers' journey in the first two decades of the 21st century

Ajad Singh — 2024-07-05

This study examines the economic transformations and financial pressures faced by farmers in Karnataka from 2002-03 to 2018-19. It explores shifts in landholding patterns, credit accessibility, income trends, and indebtedness among different farmer categories. Utilizing data from the Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) conducted in 2003 and 2019, the analysis reveals a trend towards smaller landholdings and increased credit access, especially among marginal and small farmers. Significant income growth is observed, particularly in agricultural earnings, alongside rising consumption expenditures. However, the debt burden has substantially increased, with variations across farmer categories. The findings highlight the importance of supporting sustainable land management, enhancing financial inclusion, and promoting diversified income sources to ensure the long-term economic stability of farmers in Karnataka.

Factors influencing economic well-being of MFI clients in Delhi's slums

Vandana Sethi — 2024-07-12

The provision of microcredit can be a highly effective tool for enhancing the economic well-being of participants. This paper aims to explore the factors impacting the welfare of microfinance institution (MFI) clients residing in the slums of Delhi where MFIs operate. The broad welfare indicator used is households' (HHs) monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE). The empirical analysis relies on primary data obtained from 215 households, who were clients of microfinance institutions. The OLS regression model has been employed to identify the impact of MFI loans, loan utilization, and HH's socio-economic factors on their 'current' MPCE. The findings indicate that microfinance operations positively impact the economic well-being (MPCE) of participants. The benefits to the households grow as the loan amount increases, the duration of their relationship with MFIs lengthens, and when loans are utilized for productive purposes.

Breaking traditions: understanding the rise of nuclear families in Haryana

Khushi Singh — 2024-07-16

This paper, titled "Breaking Traditions: Understanding the Rise of Nuclear Families in Haryana," explores the shifting dynamics of family structures in Haryana, a state deeply rooted in traditional joint family systems. Using data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022-23, the study examines the prevalence of nuclear and joint families across different social groups and sectors. The analysis reveals a clear trend towards nuclear families, especially in urban areas, driven by factors such as economic development, urbanization, and rising education levels. The study also employs logistic regression to identify socio-economic determinants influencing this shift. The findings indicate that higher household income, education, and urban residence significantly increase the likelihood of nuclear family structures, while traditional social groups and self-employment are associated with the persistence of joint families, particularly in rural areas. These results have important implications for social policy and family welfare programs in Haryana, highlighting the need to address the diverse needs of evolving family structures in the state.

Sociological theory in India: a crisis

Arif Raza — 2024-08-02

Through the use of existing theoretical and methodological skills, sociology should be converted into a "policy science," contributing to policy creation and implementation. Classic sociological theories' epistemic and cultural bases are informative in understanding what goes into the construction of social ideas. Theorists were able to establish approaches/methods for comprehending their modern society, which was crystallising and giving normative direction. Indian sociology has kept its linkages to European sociological traditions intact. A history philosophy and a history theory must be the foundations of any social theory that tries to explain social phenomena. Without some explicit or implicit political/moral commitments, social theory is worthless. The idea here is that the Indian sociological community should try to build theoretical frameworks by studying the history of Indian culture. This is a long-term project that will require sociologists to work together.

Punjab farmers’ financial journey: evaluating loan sources from 2002 to 2019

Ajad Singh — 2024-08-06

This study examines the evolution of loan sources accessed by farmers in Punjab from 2002 to 2019, focusing on income growth and the dynamics of institutional and non-institutional credit. Utilizing data from the 59th and 77th rounds of the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) Situation Assessment Survey, this analysis covers a range of factors, including outstanding loan amounts, borrowing patterns, and interest rates across various landholding categories.

Findings indicate a notable increase in average income across all farmer categories, with significant correlations to enhanced access to institutional loans. The proportion of institutional loans has risen sharply, with marginal farmers increasing their reliance from 24.9% to 79.7% by 2019. Conversely, non-institutional loan dependence declined, reflecting a shift towards more formal credit sources. The analysis reveals that while larger farmers benefit more from institutional credit, marginal and small farmers also exhibit improved access, though they continue to face challenges. Overall, this study highlights the changing landscape of farmer financing in Punjab, underscoring the impact of policy initiatives aimed at improving credit accessibility and financial stability among agricultural households.