Class 6 Civics Chapter 7 Case Based Questions - Rural Livelihoods

Case 1: Rural Livelihoods in Kalpattu Village

In Kalpattu, a coastal village in Tamil Nadu, ploughing is not a common sight. Instead, the villagers are engaged in various activities such as pottery, basket weaving, and brick-making in kilns. The village boasts of several shops including tea shops, cloth shops, barbershops, and tailors. Life in Kalpattu presents a unique picture where women are not only responsible for domestic duties but also contribute to the family income. However, despite their hard work, many struggle to meet their basic needs.

Q1: What are the primary livelihood activities in Kalpattu village?
Ans: Pottery, basket weaving, brick-making, and various shops are the primary livelihood activities in Kalpattu village.

Q2: Describe the role of women in Kalpattu's rural livelihoods.
Ans: Women in Kalpattu are responsible for both domestic duties and contributing to the family income.

Q3: Why do people in Kalpattu face difficulty in meeting their basic necessities?
Ans: People in Kalpattu struggle to meet basic needs due to limited income.

Q4: When is work in rural areas like Kalpattu more prevalent?
Ans: Work in rural areas in Kalpattu is more prevalent during the harvesting season.

Q5: How does the lack of funds affect farmers in Kalpattu?
Ans: Lack of funds leads farmers in Kalpattu to fall into a debt trap.

Case 2: Agricultural Laborers and Farmers in India

In India, only 20% of farmers enjoy a good standard of living, while the majority face various challenges. Hoarding is one such issue that negatively impacts farmers. Additionally, about two-thirds of India's agricultural laborers are landless laborers, leading to economic vulnerability.

Q6: What percentage of farmers in India have a good lifestyle?
Ans: Only 20% of farmers in India enjoy a good lifestyle.

Q7: How does hoarding affect farmers in the country?
Ans: Hoarding negatively affects farmers by reducing their income.

Q8: What is the significant issue faced by a majority of agricultural laborers in India?
Ans: A significant issue faced by many agricultural laborers in India is landlessness.

Q9: Explain the concept of landless laborers in Indian agriculture.
Ans: Landless laborers do not own land and depend on daily wages for their livelihood.

Q10: Why is economic vulnerability a concern for many farmers in India?
Ans: Economic vulnerability is a concern for farmers in India due to financial instability.

Case 3: Livelihoods in Coastal Areas

People living in coastal areas often lead challenging lives, with fishing being their primary occupation. However, this livelihood comes with uncertainties, as it's never certain whether fishermen will return from their trips. The monsoon season poses additional risks, leaving fishermen unsafe for four months, which is a lean period for their livelihood.

Q11: What is the main occupation of people in coastal areas?
Ans: Fishing is the primary occupation of people in coastal areas.

Q12: Why is there uncertainty associated with fishing in coastal areas?
Ans: Uncertainty is associated with fishing as it's uncertain if fishermen will return from their trips.

Q13: How does the monsoon season affect the livelihood of coastal fishermen?
Ans: The monsoon season makes coastal fishermen unsafe for four months, a lean period for their livelihood.

Q14: Describe the constant battle for survival faced by the majority of people in coastal areas.
Ans: Coastal communities face a constant battle for survival due to the risks associated with fishing.

Q15: What are some specific challenges that coastal communities face in sustaining their livelihoods?
Ans: Specific challenges include unpredictable weather conditions and market fluctuations.

Case 4: Challenges Faced by Rural Livelihoods

Rural livelihoods in India are riddled with challenges. These include limited opportunities for work, seasonal employment, and the constant threat of falling into a debt trap due to a lack of funds among farmers.

Q16: What are some of the challenges faced by rural livelihoods in India?
Ans: Challenges faced by rural livelihoods include limited work opportunities, seasonal employment, and the risk of falling into a debt trap.

Q17: How does seasonal employment impact rural communities?
Ans: Seasonal employment means work is only available during certain times of the year.

Q18: Explain the concept of a "debt trap" in the context of rural livelihoods.
Ans: A "debt trap" is a situation where farmers accumulate debt and struggle to repay it.

Q19: Why do farmers in rural areas often struggle with financial resources?
Ans: Farmers often lack financial resources due to low income.

Q20: What role does limited work opportunities play in rural livelihood challenges?
Ans: Limited work opportunities contribute to the challenges faced by rural livelihoods.

Case 5: Government's Role in Promoting Rural Livelihoods

The government plays a significant role in promoting rural livelihoods in India. Policies and programs are designed to address the challenges faced by rural communities and improve their overall well-being.

Q21: How does the government contribute to promoting rural livelihoods in India?
Ans: The government promotes rural livelihoods through policies and programs.

Q22: Can you name a specific government program or initiative aimed at rural development?
Ans: One specific program is the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Q23: What are some key objectives of government policies for rural areas?
Ans: Government policies aim to improve rural well-being by addressing challenges and promoting development.

Q24: Explain the importance of government support for rural communities.
Ans: Government support is crucial for enhancing the quality of life in rural areas.

Q25: How do government interventions help in alleviating some of the challenges faced by rural livelihoods?
Ans: Government interventions help alleviate challenges by providing employment and resources to rural communities.