Question

In the region where you live, talk to the older people within a rural community and visit the fields they now cultivate. Find out what they produce, how they earn their livelihoods, what their parents did, what their sons and daughters do now, and how their lives have changed over the last 75 years. Write a report based on your findings.

Answer 1

I spoke to some elderly people living in a rural area to understand how village life has changed over the last 75 years. I asked them about farming, crops, livelihood, family occupations and the work done by the younger generation.

1. Farming in the Past:
   • Earlier, most families depended mainly on agriculture. Farmers used bullocks, wooden ploughs and simple tools for cultivation. Farming depended greatly on rainfall, wells and tanks.
   • The main crops grown were jowar, bajra, wheat, pulses and vegetables. Many families also kept cows, buffaloes, goats and poultry.
2. Farming Today:
   • Today, farming has changed a lot. Farmers use tractors, pumps, improved seeds and modern machines. Irrigation has also improved through canals, borewells and drip irrigation.
   • Farmers now grow both food crops and cash crops. They also have better access to markets and transport.
3. Changes in Livelihood:
   • In the past, most people worked in farming or traditional village occupations. Today, people also work in shops, transport, offices, factories, government jobs and other services.
   • Young people have more opportunities for education and employment.
4. Changes Between Generations:
   • The older generation mostly continued the occupation of their parents. Their sons and daughters today often choose different careers.
   • Many young people go to towns and cities for higher education and jobs. Women also have more opportunities for education, employment and participation in local government.
5. Comparison of Earlier and Present Rural Life:
   

   Earlier Rural Life	Present Rural Life
   Bullocks and wooden ploughs were commonly used.	Tractors and machines are widely used.
   Farming depended mainly on rainfall.	Modern irrigation facilities are available.
   Most people depended only on agriculture.	People have many different sources of income.
   Education opportunities were limited.	More children attend schools and colleges.
   Transport and communication were limited.	Roads, vehicles, mobile phones and the internet are commonly used.
   Women had fewer opportunities outside the home.	Women have greater opportunities in education and employment.

6. Conclusion: Rural life has changed greatly over the last 75 years. Technology, education, irrigation, transport and new employment opportunities have improved many aspects of village life. However, agriculture and animal rearing still remain important occupations in rural areas.