journal of sustainable rural development

journal of sustainable rural development

Explaining the Socio-Economic Impacts of Expanding Small-Scale Agricultural Activities (Case Study: Villages of Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh County)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Fateme Monajjemi Lahijani 1
Eisa pourramzan 2
Teymor Amar 2
1 Ph.D Student in Geography and Rural Planning, Department of Geography, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran
2 Department of Geography, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran; Tourism Research Center, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran
10.22034/jsrd.2025.516104.1218
Abstract
Purpose: Small-scale agricultural activities represent an important source of supplementary income for rural households. The income generated from these activities plays a crucial role in strengthening both the economic viability and social sustainability of rural communities. Accordingly, the present study aims to explain the socio-economic impacts of small-scale agricultural activities in the villages of Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh County.
Methods: This research employs a descriptive-analytical method. Data were collected through a combination of documentary research and field surveys. The statistical population consisted of agricultural households in 16 villages with the largest cultivated areas in the Central and Kiashahr districts of Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh County. A total of 350 individuals engaged in these small-scale activities were selected using a stratified random sampling method.
Results: Small-scale agricultural activities are carried out on a relatively limited scale when compared to villagers’ primary livelihood, namely, rice production. Nevertheless, their economic impacts, such as improvements in household welfare and financial security, as well as their social impacts, including job sustainability and population retention in villages, are significant. These activities have contributed to economic welfare (mean = 4.03), economic security (mean = 4.02), and the quality of household employment (mean = 3.99). There is a statistically significant correlation (r = 0.64, p < 0.05) between economic impacts (measured through welfare and security indicators) and small-scale agricultural activities at a 95% confidence level. Furthermore, a strong and significant correlation (r = 0.76, p < 0.05) was found between social impacts and the expansion of small-scale agricultural activities in the studied villages.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that small-scale agricultural activities, such as the cultivation and production of vegetables and herbs, serve as supplementary livelihoods alongside the main economic activities of rural households. These activities yield substantial socio-economic benefits that contribute to community resilience. Therefore, integrating the promotion and support of such activities into rural development planning is essential for achieving long-term sustainability.ple
Keywords
Small-scale agriculture
rural livelihoods
economic security
household welfare
employment sustainability
Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh County
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journal of sustainable rural development
Volume 9, Issue 2 - Serial Number 16
Autumn and Winter
Autumn 2025