Socioeconomic dynamics and technological integration in Punjab's farming communities: Insights from a rural survey

This study investigates the socioeconomic conditions of farmers in five villages in Rupnagar district, Punjab, by assessing their agricultural practices and educational levels in order to uncover factors influencing agricultural output. The survey, based on a sample of 120 farmers, showed a primarily experienced agricultural community, with 44% aged 36 to 55. Educational attainment varies, with 45% completing metric education and only 1.7% receiving a degree, highlighting the need for further educational outreach. Farming experience varies greatly, ranging from less than ten years to more than fifty, indicating a diversified skill set. Landholding patterns reflect a predominance of small landowners (45.8%), indicating that agriculture is small-scale. The majority of farmers choose nuclear families (76.75%), with the General category accounting for 80% of respondents, while the OBC and SC categories make up 16.7% and 2.5%, respectively. Technological adoption is significant, with 92.5% of farmers holding cell phones and 75.8% having internet access. However, the reliance on rented farm machinery (13%), as well as the uneven distribution of agricultural equipment, reveal resource availability gaps. Input dealers (64.1%) are the most common providers of information, with extension services providing less participation. The findings highlight the need of expanding educational opportunities and technological access in order to increase agricultural output and maintain rural communities' socioeconomic stability. Addressing these concerns with focused interventions has the potential to greatly enhance farming practices and overall rural development.