RURBANIZATION AND ITS IMPACT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN NANDURBAR DISTRICT

Abstract

Rurbanization, a blend of rural and urban features, has become a significant process in transforming the socio-economic landscape of many rural areas across India. This phenomenon is particularly evident in Nandurbar district, Maharashtra, where the merging of rural and urban characteristics has led to both opportunities and challenges. This paper examines the impact of rurbanization on the socio-economic development of Nandurbar, focusing on areas such as employment, income, infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Over the past decade, Nandurbar has seen considerable infrastructural development, driven by governmental schemes and market integration, which has facilitated economic growth and improved quality of life for many residents. However, the benefits of this transformation are not equally distributed, as urban areas within the district tend to experience faster economic growth compared to rural zones, which continue to rely heavily on agriculture. Migration patterns from rural to semi-urban areas have further shaped this demographic shift, as people seek better employment opportunities and access to improved services. In the process, social structures have also evolved, with urban lifestyles influencing family dynamics and cultural practices. The study highlights the positive outcomes of rurbanization, such as increased income, greater access to education, and improved healthcare. However, it also draws attention to persistent issues such as inadequate infrastructure in remote areas, environmental degradation, and the widening socio-economic gap between urban and rural regions. Through primary surveys and interviews with local stakeholders, the paper offers insights into these changes and presents policy recommendations for addressing the challenges posed by rurbanization in Nandurbar. The findings underscore the importance of balanced, inclusive growth to ensure that the benefits of rurbanization reach all sections of society without compromising environmental sustainability.