Here is the notes from Class 6 NCERT Political Science – Chapter 8: “Rural Livelihoods”
Rural Livelihoods
- A livelihood is the way people earn money to meet their basic needs.
- In rural areas, people depend mostly on agriculture, fishing, animal rearing, and other small jobs for their livelihood.
Different Types of Rural Livelihoods
People in villages earn in different ways:
- Farming (agriculture)
- Fishing
- Animal husbandry (rearing animals like cows, goats, hens)
- Weaving and handicrafts
- Working as labourers
Types of Farmers
Large Farmers
- Own large lands
- Use machines and hired workers
- Sell extra crops in the market
Small Farmers
- Own small land
- Work with family members
- May not grow enough food
Landless Farmers (Agricultural Laborers)
- Have no land of their own
- Work on others’ farms for wages
- Wages may be paid in cash or kind
Livelihoods in Coastal Areas
- People living near the sea often depend on fishing.
- Fishermen catch fish and sell them in the market.
- Some people also repair nets, sell fish, or transport them.
Challenges in Rural Livelihoods
- Not enough jobs for everyone
- Dependence on seasons (like rainfall)
- Low income and no regular work
- Need for loans for seeds, tools, etc.
- Sometimes, people migrate to cities in search of work
Non-Farming Activities
- Many people in rural areas depend upon collection from the forest, animal husbandry, dairy produce, fishing etc
- Collecting mahua, tendu leaves, honey, to be sold to traders, is an important source of additional income.
Cooperation Among People
- People form cooperatives to help each other (e.g., fish workers’ cooperative).
- Share profits, help in buying/selling goods together.