4.1. Explanation of the Rural Development Approach
Within the traditional sector, agriculture is more a way
of life than a sector of the economy. Meaningful measures
for the improvement of traditional agriculture, therefore,
do not tackle agriculture as a production sector but try to
improve the life of the people. Instead of speaking of agricultural
development, it is more proper to speak of "Rural Development".
Rural Development is an approach to increase the degree of
participation of the rural population in the development process
and to improve the level of living of the rural population
Increase in agricultural production might be the means to
reach this aim, ~bvt ie not the aim itself. Men and not farms
are the centre of interest and the object of rural development.
In order to reach its goal, rural development tries to improve
the situation
in rural areas from all possible angles. It includes measures
to modernize
agricultural techniques, but also the creation of supply and
marketing institutions and credit facilities. In order to
make the best possible use of these facilities, it includes
training and extension service. Transportation plays a role
as stimulus of economic activity. Communication, health, community
development and rural industries are important aspects. Last
.but not least, a proper local administration to plan, coordinate,
implement and supervise all measures is one of the most important
aspects. Rural Development is a comprehensive integrated approach
to the development o/ the rural areas and their inhabitants.
Rural development has to be planned according to given natural,
economic and sociological conditions. These tend to vary from
area to area, and, therefore, detailed planning for rural
development cannot be done at a national level. It has rather
to be done on a regional basis, after careful surveys of the
local conditions and possibilities. Rural Development should
always incorporate a regional approach, even through the actual
planning is tarried out by the central government.
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