Showing 109 results for Development
Mehdi Cheraghi,
Volume 11, Issue 39 (5-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
One of the topics related to food insecurity coping strategies is recognizing the effective factors for choosing strategies to deal with household food insecurity. Recognition of these factors is essential for planning to reduce the negative effects of food insecurity among rural households. Preliminary studies show that food security in the villages of Halab District, Ijrud County is at a low level, which includes reasons such as distance from food shopping centers, poor infrastructure, health, education and welfare facilities, low employment rate, low income level. However, in the study area, rural areas have suitable natural, economic and social resources and substrates for achieving sustainable rural development. The present study investigated the food insecurity situation of households in Halab District of Ijroud County, and then analyzed the effective factors in choosing strategies to combat food insecurity. Following questions are investigated: 1. What is the most important nutritional strategy of the households in the studied villages to deal with food insecurity? 2. What is the most important non-food strategy of the households in the studied villages to deal with food insecurity? 3. What is the most effective factor in applying strategies to combat food insecurity in the study area?
Methodology
The present research is an applied and descriptive-analytical study . Data were collected by using library and field method (questionnaire). The statistical population of the present study is households living in Halab, Ijroud County of Zanjan Province. This section has 29 inhabited villages with a population of 5183 people and 1715 families in the 2016 census. 380 households completed the questionnaire in the households of the studied villages, which was determined using the Cochran's formula. A simple systematic and random method was used for the sample selection. To assess the food security of rural households, the household food insecurity scale method was used, which consisted of 18 questions and to assess food and non-food strategy, 12 indicators was applied. In order to group the food security status of the families with children, the questions and standard grouping of the US Department of Agriculture have been used. Hackman's model was also used to investigate the factors influencing the selection of effective strategies in combating food insecurity. The Hackmann two-stage model was proposed in 1979. This model is designed to eliminate the error in selecting the sample or population under study. In the present study, Hackman's model identifies the variables with their intensity of impact for the implementation of food insecurity coping strategies in the study area.
Discussion and conclusion
Findings related to food security classification of the studied households show that 49.41% of households have food security, 31.76% of households have food insecurity without hunger, 10.59% of households have food insecurity with moderate hunger and 8.24% of households have severe food insecurity with hunger. Descriptive findings related to food strategies to combat food insecurity among the rural households studied show that the highest mean is related to the strategy of consuming cheap food and the lowest average is related to the strategy of a full day without food. The results of the model show that with a 99% probability the factors of age, number of household members, type of housing quality and percentage of income from the agricultural sector are effective in applying food strategies to combat food insecurity in the study area. Furthermore, for non-food strategies, the results of the Hackman model can confirm with a 99% confidence level that the factors of age, spouse education, number of household members, number of sons, number of people with university education, head job, spouse job, sub-job, income, irrigated lands, garden lands, having livestock, number of visits to the city during the week, vehicle, receiving bank credits, percentage of income from the industrial sector, percentage of income from the agricultural sector and percentage of income from the service sector are the most effective factors on the application of strategies to combat food insecurity.
Mohammad Hajipour,
Volume 11, Issue 40 (9-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
The development of geographical spaces requires real understanding and intelligent planning. Solving rural challenges, especially their economic issues, are a strategic step in the development of the space economy. South Khorasan Province is a geographical area in the east of the country that has significant capacities and capabilities for development. For example, the center of production of strategic products of barberry, saffron and jujube are produced in many villages; There is a competitive advantage of camel breeding in many cities of the province; there is the capacity to produce unique handicrafts such as the weaving of expensive fabrics (made of camel wool) exported to countries around the Persian Gulf, in addition to carpets, rugs and carpets; the capacity of pastures around the villages to produce medicinal and commercial plant species partially exported; there are many ecotourism attractions, desert tourism, ecotourism, agricultural tourism, cultural and ritual tourism, and food tourism in and around the villages. Also, in the villages of the province, there are various traditional cooperative systems (such as Traditional agricultural production (Tirkar) and modern (such as agricultural joint-stock companies, agricultural production cooperatives, rural development groups, and microcredit funds). Nevertheless, the low growth and backwardness in development compared to other provinces of the country is still a stigma. Therefore, in this study, after exploring the barriers to economic growth and development, a model of the impact pattern of these challenges in rural areas of South Khorasan was suggested.
Methodology
This research is an applied study and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Data were collected through documentary research and informant and experts' (local and regional) opinions. Identifying and determining the weight of barriers to the growth of the space economy has been done by combining the brainstorming method and AHP hierarchical analysis. DEMATEL method was utilized to identify the pattern of relationships between dimensions (identified categories). Primary data were extracted from interviews with members of the Employment and Economic Development Council in the cities and provinces of South Khorasan.
Discussion and conclusion
The Findings showed that 103 factors as obstacles to the growth of the space economy, especially in rural areas of South Khorasan Province. These barriers are divided into seven groups: "technical", "human and social", "institutional", "financial and commercial", "natural environment", "infrastructure" and "geographical (spatial)".
- In the technical aspect, there are 27 key challenges facing the development of the space economy in the villages of South Khorasan, which, according to the informants, "lack of specialized and semi-skilled manpower to work in the rural economy sectors" is the main challenge;
- The human-social dimension of known obstacles has 18 factors. Among these obstacles, the most important one is "the small entry of investors into the production sector and the low desire to develop production due to the fear of the sales market";
- The most important institutional obstacles include "a large number of decision-making organizations and institutions for rural economy management" and "long and complicated administrative bureaucracy";
- In financial and commercial obstacles, the most important element is "increasing the price of productive inputs of village economic activities";
- The barriers of the natural environment dimension are ranked fifth. The most important obstacle from the natural environment is known as "unsuitable climatic conditions and continuous droughts";
- In South Khorasan province, among the most important "infrastructural" obstacles are, respectively, "lack of places to supply products in the village environment", "limited access to ICT and Internet", and "lack of warehouse spaces for storing goods and products", "roads "Unfavorable access" and "extremely limited access to accommodation facilities and infrastructure" are mentioned;
- In the geographical (spatial) dimension, the obstacles include, order, "far from densely populated centers", "far from the availability of major and attractive markets", "high dispersion of villages on the city level", and "geographical isolation of areas and some villages", "proximity to the desert" and "adjacent to international borders".
In terms of the impact of variables, barriers to the geographical dimension have had the greatest impact. Also, in terms of the extent of influence of variables, the technical dimension is the most influential. In terms of the "interaction with other identified dimensions" index, studies have confirmed that the factors of the human-social dimension were at the highest level of interaction with other dimensions. In terms of the cause and effect of known dimensions, the output of DEMATELmethod showed that the dimensions of the natural, geographical and institutional environment are "causal" and human-social, infrastructure, technical, financial and commercial dimensions are "disabled".
In South Khorasan, the variety of challenges and obstacles to the growth and development of the rural economy is great, although the weight of the impact of challenging factors depends on the geographical location. In addition, the "thematic" and "spatial" extent of barriers to rural economic growth and development, which have a deteriorated effect on each other, has weakened the economic ability of villages.
Maryam Momenpour, Seyedeh Zoleikha Ghorbanzadeh Zafarani, Hasan Rasoli,
Volume 11, Issue 40 (9-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
Cities have profound effects on the surrounding rural areas, which are manifested in various environmental, social, economic and physical dimensions. Knowing the type of texture is necessary to measure the quantity of filled and empty areas, explore the quality of mass and space contiguity and identify the shape-spatial system for the regularity of filled and empty spaces. Agriculture can be the core of the space economy because it is the biggest attractor of labor in some regions and can create the most income and development. Since development is a multi-dimensional concept, which requires reorganization of the socio-economic system with it, examining the different levels and dimensions of development and knowing the differences in resources of different regions can be effective for planning. In this regard, the purpose of the present research is to measure and evaluate the desirability of peri-urban spaces for the agricultural development of rural settlements in Golestan Province.
Golestan Province, the study area of this research, is a northern province that is distinguished in agriculture due to its geographical location. The importance of the agricultural sector for this province is because of the role of this sector in increasing the country's food security and prosperity. This calls for proper and accurate planning and agricultural development.
Methodology
This research is a descriptive-analytical and applied study. The secondary data were collected from the agricultural statistics of the province in 2015. The statistical population of the study consists of 14 cities in Golestan Province based on the latest political-administrative divisions. For data analysis, we used WASPAS multi-criteria combined technique in Excel spreadsheet software, and Shannon's entropy was used to determine the weight of each index. ArcGIS was used to draw the maps.
Discussion and conclusion
The findings of this research echo the results of Kaderzadeh et al.'s studies (2016), entitled agricultural development of the cities of Kurdistan Province and confirm the difference between the cities of a province in indexes. And the indicators of development agricultural development. It also shows that most of the cities of the province are in an unfavorable situation in terms of sustainable agricultural development indicators. Also, the findings of Taqvi and Bahari (2013) regarding the distribution of the components of the development of the cities of Mazandaran Province, Sakhawat (2013) regarding the measurement of the development of the provinces of Iran, Fadeli (2014) about the inequality of development in the western provinces confirm the difference between the cities of the province in terms of development indicators. Considering the general results of this research and the placement of rural settlements in Gonbad and Gorgan Counties at the highest level of development, it can be seen that the most important factors affecting the development are the strong and concentrated urban economy and the labor force. And trained, high-quality soils with agricultural capabilities, the use of modern and efficient agricultural tools and equipment, abundant manpower, large area, especially Gonbad Kavus County, etc. The robust economic role of the cities of these two counties (Inche Broon for Gonbad Kavus County and Sohrkhankalate and Jalin for Gorgan County) is evident because they have attracted most of the services and infrastructures, and this has led to the lack of these services in rural areas. Given that in addition to increasing urbanization of the country in the future, it is inevitable to pay attention to rural settlements for balanced development and fair distribution of services based on the current situation of settlements. Fair planning and distribution of services is a must, which requires optimal investment in rural settlements for the realization of homogeneity, social justice and better living condition in different settlements.
Jaleh Koorkinejad,
Volume 11, Issue 40 (9-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
Pressure on production resources and the environment is getting higher due to increased population and the need for food, especially in developing countries. Thus, the preservation of natural resources and proper allocation of inputs must be considered in production. Sustainable agriculture suggests a framework for human needs without harming the environment and the proper and optimal use of natural resources while taking into account the rights of future generations. Achieving sustainable agricultural development is possible only if productive factors such as labor and social capital are regarded alongside physical capital. Social capital, a complement to other forms of capital, is a prerequisite for achieving sustainable development, especially in rural communities. Development in rural areas requires the expansion of trust, participation and communication and cohesion among farmers. Social capital is a factor that compensates for the deficiency of other capital inputs and binds other inputs like glue. This study investigated social capital and its role in facilitating and accelerating sustainable development in the villages of the north of Sirjan County.
Methodology
This study first evaluated the different dimensions of social capital and sustainable development using different items with the Likert scale. The required data were collected using a questionnaire that validity and reliability were examined among a sample of 195 farmers living in the northern villages of Sirjan County. After calculating the social capital indicator and sustainable development indicator, we investigated the effect of social capital on various dimensions of sustainable agriculture using the Seemingly Unrelated Regression Equations (SURE).
Discussion and conclusion
According to the results of the research, the social capital indicator was calculated at 0.57 on average, and in terms of dimensions, trust is 0.55, participation and social relations is 0.58 and norms, and social cohesion is 0.60. The economic, social, environmental and institutional dimensions of sustainable development were determined to be 0.44, 0.51, 0.49 and 0.40, respectively. The amount of economic and institutional dimensions is below average, which shows the instability of most of these dimensions among farmers. The other two dimensions are in the middle level. The results of seemingly unrelated regression equations showed that the variables of farmer age, years of experience in agriculture, net income of agriculture, social capital, participation in training courses and type of irrigation system have a positive and statistically significant effect on the economic dimension of sustainable agriculture. Variables of education level, membership in agricultural cooperatives, participation in training classes and social capital have a positive and significant effect on social sustainability, and the variables of type of irrigation system, social capital, net income and education have a significant positive effect on environmental sustainability. In addition, the results showed that farmers with higher education and those who are members of agricultural cooperatives feel more institutionally stable, and these variables have a positive effect on promoting institutional sustainability.
Low efficiency and productivity, the staggering cost of inputs, have left no income for them and have led to poor quality and welfare life for them. This has caused farmer dissatisfaction and has led young people to migrate to cities and work in industrial sectors. As it was observed, the variable of social capital has a positive effect on all four dimensions of stability, but its effect on institutional stability is not statistically significant.
Since the calculated social capital is not at a high level among farmers, besides its significance in sustainability, it is necessary to pay attention to proper planning to improve different dimensions of social capital and eliminate the existing shortcomings to achieve higher levels of sustainability. Effective training courses in rural areas are really important due to the lack of transportation facilities in farmers' living regions. In addition, the presence of skilled professionals and experts will increase the trust in the training among farmers. Creating suitable living facilities and equitable distribution of facilities in villages, improving infrastructure, and access of farmers' children to quality schools. The life expectancy and desire of farmers, especially young people, to stay in the villages will be increased when donors and rich farmers participate in improving living conditions in rural areas.
Nahideh Mohammadi, Bijan Rahmani, Naser Shafiei Thabit,
Volume 11, Issue 40 (9-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
The extensive experience of many countries shows that the success of development programs in rural areas has not been favorable due to some limitations, especially the lack of participation of the beneficiaries or the villagers. Since it is only the villagers who can effectively identify their perceived problems and needs, therefore their participation in the management process and planning of rural development and transformation - in all its stages - is essential. In this regard, local people can participate fully and effectively when they are organized and trained to make a united and continuous effort. Therefore, in this context, non-governmental organizations, as people-oriented and participatory institutions, are known to be the most important main means of achieving this goal, which can penetrate rural communities and involve villagers in the process of participatory and sustainable development. Therefore, since the late 1980s and especially in the 1990s, and with the introduction of the community-oriented approach, non-governmental organizations have received attention. Because the ability of local stakeholders in community-oriented development is a fundamental factor in enabling them to participate and influence the development and spatial developments have a special place. Therefore, it is necessary to make an effort to empower the villagers in order to reduce the negative consequences of their weak intervention in the process of development and spatial development. On this basis, to improve the organized participation of villagers in the framework of non-governmental organizations, it is necessary to develop planning and policies in order to invest in the improvement of the facilitators of the empowerment of villagers, such as; Education, awareness raising, trust and confidence, cohesion and solidarity, etc. should be placed in order to provide the necessary grounds for the formation of non-governmental organizations. In this framework, the analysis of the growth and expansion of non-governmental organizations in the spatial transformations of rural settlements, taking into account the improvement of empowerment indicators, is a new approach that has been addressed in this research.
Methodology
In the present study, based on a descriptive-analytical method and based on a questionnaire, the relationship between rural empowerment facilitators in the formation of non-governmental organizations and the relationship between these organizations in The process of spatial transformation of rural settlements (in the form of 15 indicators) was measured at the level of 30 villages and 300 sample households in the villages of Javanrood township. The collected data were processed using SPSS software and using correlation test statistics, and univariate and multivariate regression.
Discussion and conclusion
Findings showed that there is a significant relationship between the improvement of empowerment indicators and the rate of formation and expansion of non-governmental organizations in the direction of the spatial transformation of rural settlements. But, this relationship has been decreasing-decreasing, which has revealed the inappropriate position of research variables in the study area. In other words, the implementation of empowerment methods due to the dominance of the "top-down" and "state-based" approach has not been able to create a sense of power and empowerment in the local stakeholders and their effective and organized participation in the framework of non-governmental organizations. The low level of participation of non-governmental organizations has caused failure in the spatial development of rural settlements in economic, social, physical and environmental-ecological dimensions. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to and improve the facilitation indicators of rural empowerment such as; Education and awareness, knowledge and skills, cohesion and solidarity, trust and confidence, participation, institutionalization and political support of the government, and changing the approach to "community-based" and "bottom-up", are a good ground for their participation with the aim of creating non-governmental organizations in the direction the spatial transformation of rural settlements.
Marzieh Pourjopari, Abouzar Paidar, Seyyed Hadi Tayebnia, Aliakbar Anabastani,
Volume 11, Issue 41 (12-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
Today, eco-tourism is one of the essential aspects of transformation, diversity and economic prosperity of rural communities, especially in arid and semi-arid areas, historical villages and traditional and local communities. Since eco-tourism has different contexts, capacities, patterns and aspects, it is necessary to identify and promote and strengthen patterns appropriate to the conditions of each village for planning the development of rural eco-tourism. Kerman Province has 330 eco-tourism units; most of these accommodation units have recently been set up in villages and tourist areas. Kerman County has always been the focus of tourists due to its historical background and the conditions governing the nature of this region. Considering the importance of tourism activities and eco-tourism in developing rural areas, hence improving the living conditions of the communities, this study analyzes the ability of eco-tourism attractions in Kerman County. Therefore, the central question of the research is, what will be the ideal model of eco-tourism development in the villages of Kerman County?
Methodology
In terms of the objective, the current research is applied research, and its nature is descriptive-analytical. Collecting information combines two library methods (documents) and survey (field-based questionnaires and interviews). The research questionnaire collects the required information from 37 components in economic, social-cultural, environmental, security, physical-spatial, and several variables. The content validity of the questionnaire was verified from the point of view of professors and experts in the field of geography. Also, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to verify the reliability of many research questions. Cronbach's alpha of most variables is more significant than 0.7, so the reliability of all variables is confirmed. In addition, the average variance extracted is always more than 0.5, so the convergent validity is also confirmed.
Discussion and conclusion
According to the findings, eco-tourism development has generally had positive effects in all dimensions and components, although to different extents. The observed factor load has a value greater than 0.3 in most cases. Therefore, there was a proper correlation between the visible and hidden variables. However, the development of eco-tourism has not been able to be brought up in the villages properly. It is possible to state in a general way the pattern of eco-tourism development in the villages of Kerman city. Generally, the model is based on economic empowerment. In this way, in the first step, rural areas should generally be improved in factors such as unemployment reduction, job diversity and stable employment, stable income, investment of villagers in tourism, entry of non-native investors, product branding, packaging, conversion and Processing all kinds of livestock and agricultural products, creating and expanding local markets, overcoming the inability and dependence or lack of dependence on foreign resources and products (city) and the government for villagers, equal access to opportunities and resources, the dynamics of the supply chain and value in the village, supporting and empowering the deprived sections of the society. Also, the shape of the eco-tourism development pattern for Joshan, Sirach, Mazieh and Akhtarabad Rural Districts is considered physical-spatial, which means that in terms of construction, strengthening of buildings, use of local materials in construction and creation of attractiveness, improvement and widening of roads and bridges, embellishment, lighting of roads need to be improved. In other rural districts like Mahan, a security model is suggested, so political stability, public and personal security, and reduction of crimes and anomalies inside the village and houses, outside the village on roads and virgin areas are more important than other dimensions. In Qanatghistan, environmental aspects like the preservation and expansion of pastures, medicinal plants, water and soil resources, animal life, and new and sustainable energies should be considered. The pattern of development of Rayen and Hossein Abad tourism has a social and cultural format, which includes preserving and expanding customs, the way of holding and organizing celebrations and weddings, mourning, occasions, games, music, dance, show, preservation and expansion of beliefs and cultures and native architecture, preservation of historical buildings (mosques, caravanserais, shrines, castles, tombs, baths); The ideal model for the development of eco-tourism in other villages such as Koirat, Zangi-Abad, Drakhngan, Sar Asiyab, Baghin is an economic and environmental model; Takab and Andohjerd: economic and socio-cultural; And Kashit: physical-spatial and security combined.
Mostafa Mardani Najafabadi, Yasamin Zebari, Nasrin Ohadi,
Volume 11, Issue 41 (12-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
Population growth, the need to provide food security, and pressure on natural resources in developing countries are facing a fundamental challenge for the sustainable production of food products. The need to pay attention to sustainability in agriculture has been confirmed at local, regional, national, and global levels. Sustainable agriculture is a system that uses resources efficiently, produces healthy food resources, preserves the quality of the environment and resources for future generations, and is economically dynamic. Sustainability is a qualitative concept that cannot be measured directly, so appropriate indicators should be selected to determine the amount and durability of an agricultural system. Efficiency is a significant factor in the productivity growth of production resources, especially in developing countries. Increasing efficiency can be considered a suitable and sustainable complement to a set of policies that encourage and protect domestic production and promote the optimal use of resources. The exact definition of efficiency can be found in Pareto's definition. According to the definition of efficiency, a system has Pareto efficiency so that it is impossible to improve the economic status of an individual from society without worsening the economic status of another individual. In other words, the reallocation of resources should not worsen the situation of some people in society. Therefore, improving the efficiency and optimal consumption of production factors in improving the sustainability of agricultural operations in the direction of sustainable development is inevitable. Based on this, the main goal of the present study is to determine the efficiency and optimal use of production resources by rice farmers in rural areas of Gotvand in the direction of sustainable development under conditions of uncertainty (the application of robust Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)).
Methodology
Efficiency measurement methods are classified into two parametric and non-parametric methods according to their characteristics. The most apparent model proposed in the non-parametric framework is the DEA model. In DEA, the efficiency of a group of investigated units is determined by using a multiple set of input and output variables. One of the major limitations of the mentioned method is the high sensitivity of this method to the change in the value of input and output data, or in other words, the presence of uncertainty in these data. Because agriculture is always faced with uncertainty, when the input and output values have uncertainty, the mentioned model faces problems. In this regard, it is necessary to use another method that can protect optimal solutions against uncertainty. Recently, various methods have been proposed to overcome the problem of uncertain data in DEA, such as Interval DEA (IDEA), Fuzzy DEA (FDEA) and Stochastic DEA (SDEA). Another method of dealing with uncertain data that was introduced in mathematical programming models in the late 1990s is Robust DEA (RDEA). This method does not have some shortcomings in other methods for applying uncertainty conditions in the DEA model. The RDEA is one of the robust and valuable models in conditions of uncertainty, and in this study, this method was used to analyze the efficiency of rice farmers. The required data in the study area was obtained through the distribution and completion of the questionnaire in 2018 by 121 rice farmers considering the statistical population and using simple random sampling.
Discussion and conclusion
The average technical efficiency in the state of constant return to scale efficiency and at the level of 0.5 deviation probability and 20% uncertainty level is equal to 0.79, which means that rice farmers can use a fixed technology without reducing production, reduce their input consumption by 21% and reach the production efficiency bound. As a result, the producers of the studied area need to use production inputs optimally to produce a given level of production. However, the actual values of input consumption by rice farmers in rural areas are far from the estimated optimal values. In other words, there is excess consumption for all inputs. The most inefficient inputs in the present study are the area under cultivation and herbicide. Therefore, achieving the optimal level of consumption of these inputs without reducing production by reducing 48% and 45% in the consumption of the cultivated area and herbicide, respectively. Considering the low technical efficiency and unfavorable input consumption among the rice farmers in the researched rural areas, it is suggested to identify efficient units and serve as a reference for inefficient units and develop a regular annual plan for optimal input consumption by farmers and as a result of improving efficiency, to improve the sustainability of agricultural operations in line with the goals of sustainable development. Also, educational planning is recommended to use suitable and advanced technologies to increase the productivity of production factors.
Nasrin Jalilian, Yaser Mohammadi,
Volume 11, Issue 41 (12-2022)
Abstract
Introduction
Currently, the issue of employment is one of the most critical social challenges in the country to deal with unemployment, or at least to prevent the spread of anomalies and social damages. Nowadays, rural communities, especially poor rural households, are mainly faced with information poverty, low skills, weak entrepreneurial culture and ethnic and tribal inequalities that distinguish them from other communities. The people of the rural community, especially those of the low-income groups and households that government institutions support, are involved with more issues and problems. Among these groups, women are exposed to poverty and gender discrimination more than men, and they are more vulnerable to unemployment than men. One way to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods, especially among rural women heads of households, is to provide them with microfinance in the form of providing self-sufficiency facilities and job creation through institutions such as the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation.
Methodology
This research has been conducted to study the role of employment loans on the sustainable livelihood of rural women heads of households. The research is a quantitative and applied study of nature and purpose. Also, in terms of the data collection method, it is survey research, and in terms of the data analysis method, it is descriptive-correlation research. The statistical population of this research was the rural women who were the heads of the household, whom the relief committee covered in Harsam village, Islamabad Gharb city in Kermanshah province, and 100 of these women were selected and examined by the census. The data was collected using a researcher-made questionnaire, the validity of which was confirmed by experts' opinions and its reliability by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Data analysis was done in the IBMSPSS software environment.
Discussion and conclusion
The results of the study showed that the two groups of female heads of households who benefited and did not benefit from the aid committee's job creation loans had a significant difference in terms of sustainable rural livelihoods, and the beneficiary women had better livelihoods, especially in terms of financial capital and physical capital. Also, among the women benefiting from good-quality loans, those who were satisfied with the number of loans received and their repayment period and also participated in skill training courses to create jobs had a higher level of sustainable livelihood.
Ali Akbar Taghipour, Fatemeh Motalebi Nejad, Parsa Ahmadi Dehrashid,
Volume 11, Issue 42 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Nowadays, systems of society, including social and economic systems, change so fast that they require appropriate actions and strategies to satisfy their needs. Entrepreneurship is one of the strategies proposed in response to new needs. Rural settlements play an essential role in all aspects of society. These settlements contain a significant percentage of the population and are essential to national development. However, these places are known to have problems such as unemployment, low income, and lack of diversity in occupation. According to many researchers, entrepreneurship is an essential tool for rural development and can be a suitable stimulus for the stagnant situation of three sectors of agriculture, services and industry. However, the fact that entrepreneurship programs are male-oriented is a big problem that has caused human resources and society's capacity not to be used properly. As half of the society's population, women have a prominent role in various elements of society, but the existing policies and plans prevent their presence and development. Gender analysis is a way to achieve gender balance in all aspects of society, and it examines and compares the attitudes and views of men and women on various issues. In the present research, an attempt is made to evaluate the views of women and men of Amirabad District of Damghan County regarding the effect of five components: individual, family, economic, cultural-social and institutional infrastructure in the success of entrepreneurship.
Methodology
The current research is an applied study, which in terms of its nature, is in the category of descriptive-analytical research. The method of collecting documentary information is a survey; In the first step, with library studies, an effort was made to extract the components needed for the questionnaire while developing the theoretical framework of the research. The questionnaire was prepared in 17 indicators and 41 items among 379 residents of Ghahab Rastaq, Ghahab Sarsar and Toyeh Darwar districts in Amirabad District of Damghan County, which was calculated using the Cochran method with a confidence coefficient of 95%. It was distributed in the spring of 1401. After completing the questionnaires, they were collected and analyzed using SPSS software; Pearson's correlation test and independent T-test are two statistical tests that were used to measure the correlation between variables and gender analysis of entrepreneurship development indicators, respectively.
Discussion and conclusion
Using the Pearson correlation test to measure the degree of correlation between the variables indicates a significant relationship between the indicators of entrepreneurship development and the success resulting from it, based on the respondents' opinions. However, the low weighted average of them causes the significance of the relationship to be moderate. The obtained results show that the highest correlation rate among men is the individual index, with a correlation rate of 0.552, and the family indices (r=0.519), cultural-social (r=0.495), and economic indices (r=0.476), respectively. Moreover, infrastructural-institutional (r=0.471) is in the following ranks. Among women, the highest correlation value, like men, is related to the "individual" index with a value of 0.473, and infrastructure-institutional (r= 0.469), economic (r= 0.453), family (r= 0.440), and social indicators. - Cultural (r= 0.393) is in the next rank. Therefore, according to the obtained results, the first hypothesis of the research is rejected; In the first hypothesis, it was stated that "it seems that among the effective factors in the development of entrepreneurship, economic factors have more influence from the point of view of women", the results of the Pearson test indicated that the economic index with the value of r=0.453 It is in the third place of indicators in terms of women. On the other hand, according to the above results, the second hypothesis of the research is confirmed because the factors of the five indicators of the research do not have the same priority from the point of view of men and women, and each of the gender groups has a different point of view towards Indicators are essential.
The results of the independent T-test indicate that in the "individual" index, the most important item for women's success in entrepreneurship is "having commitment" and for men, "risk tolerance". In the "family" index, women's "family attitude" and men's "having freedom of action on behalf of the family" were evaluated as the most critical items. In the "economic" index, in terms of both sex groups, "income from entrepreneurship"; In the "social-cultural" index, from the point of view of women, "the type of culture in the place of residence" and from the point of view of men, "women's participation"; In the institutional-infrastructural index, "giving land to entrepreneurs" was evaluated as the most important issue for both sex groups.
This research attempted to measure the difference between men's and women's views on success factors in entrepreneurship. The obtained results indicated that women and men have completely different views on success factors in entrepreneurship; Although men and women considered the "individual" factor to be the most important factor, there was no consensus among them regarding the order of the components of this factor. According to women, "having a commitment" is the most important feature that must exist in the personality of an entrepreneur in order to provide the basis for his success; On the other hand, men consider "risk-taking" to be the most important characteristic of a successful entrepreneur. In general, women believed that individual, infrastructural-institutional, economic, family, and socio-cultural factors have the greatest impact on entrepreneurial success; Men also considered individual, family, cultural-social, economic, infrastructural-institutional as important. The research results indicate a significant difference between the attitudes of women and men; This requires that this difference be taken into account in relevant decisions and planning so that proper improvement and development in entrepreneurship can occur among all social groups.
Shamsi Aberi Mansoor, Meysam Mousaaei, Adel Abdollahi,
Volume 11, Issue 42 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Entrepreneurship is a novel economic phenomenon that significantly influences countries’ economic development. Today, entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in market and competition economics. In other words, in dynamic economics, ideas, products, and services are constantly changing; it is where the entrepreneur introduces a new pattern to adapt to the changes. Therefore, on a larger scale and within a multi-lateral interaction, entrepreneurship plays a definitive role in our lives in the modern world. In this sense, rural entrepreneurship, defined as “entrepreneurial business, industrial, and agricultural activities in rural areas which can foster economic development to a great deal,” is introduced as a relatively new concept in dynamic economics. An entrepreneurial environment welcomes risks and opportunities and knows how to benefit from environmental resources. According to the existing literature, entrepreneurs constantly look for value potentials to discover and benefit from the significant values of positive external factors. Positive incidents or opportunities can create considerable profit for one’s business if one knows how to monetize them. These external factors include the natural resources available in entrepreneurs’ work environments. The study aims to introduce a platform to promote entrepreneurship and study factors that help it thrive. To this aim, Giddens’ Theory of Structuration, which introduces a complex structure to study how opportunities, in specific, and threats, in general, appear to an entrepreneur working on a system, was employed in this study. Entrepreneurial passion is developed through the interactions between people and opportunities. This study provides a platform to examine entrepreneurial opportunities in dire need of further investigation in the Bahar District of Hamedan, a province of Iran.
Methodology
This applied research follows a descriptive-analytical approach. This study was conducted using a survey research method. The statistical population included all the families who lived in the Bahar district of Hamedan. The Cochran formula was used to determine the sample size. The sample size was set at 384 households; however, to ensure the accuracy of the resulting data, it was increased to 450 households. The participants were asked to fill out the
questionnaire. Multi-stage cluster sampling was used to select the participants of the study. The participants were selected using the following process: first, the researchers acquired multiple maps of the housed areas. Then, to ensure the randomness of the participant selection, the researchers would choose each household randomly and interview the first person who showed up at the door, provided that he was 18 or older. SPSS was used to analyze the resulting data. The Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis were used to calculate the correlation between variables.
Discussion and conclusion
According to the analytical findings of this research, there was a positive and direct relationship between entrepreneurship and its four contributing factors social security, economic security, social trust, and hope for the future. The study results show potential individual and environmental resources in the Bahar district of Hamedan to support entrepreneurial activities and start new businesses. These individual and environmental resources predicted 0.21 of the changes associated with entrepreneurial activities, indicating that they help entrepreneurial activities and businesses thrive. In other words, creating environments where new businesses can easily grow and expand contributes to entrepreneurial activities greatly. Bahar District of Hamedan possesses relatively promising capacities which can boost social and economic development significantly if handled with proper thought and planning. The local and rural administrators have failed to create an environment conducive to the establishment of new businesses and financial development. They have mainly focused on the development of the well-being of the locals through housing. However, housing developments alone cannot lead to social and economic development in rural areas. Local administrators need to start planning for economic development by creating job opportunities for the locals. Since the Bahar district of Hamedan is one of the pathways to the Holy March of Karbala. It can bring about many opportunities for financial development for the locals through local markets, etc. The locals can sell their agricultural and handcrafted products in these markets and step on the path of entrepreneurship, ultimately leading to social and economic development. The development of rural businesses and entrepreneurial activities are two of the primary factors in rural entrepreneurship. Multiple factors contribute to rural entrepreneurship. That is why it is necessary to promote the factors supporting rural entrepreneurship in the Bahar district of Hamedan to sow the seeds of financial development in this region.
Masoumeh Noroozinezhad, Majid Yasuri, Ruhollah Oji,
Volume 11, Issue 42 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
The declining trend of the rural economy, the spread of poverty, and unemployment show that, in practice, the vital development goals in rural areas have failed. The sustainability of the rural economy is a vital corridor to achieving national economic sustainability. Economic sustainability in rural areas means strengthening the foundations of the rural economy to economic security in terms of access to sustainable livelihoods, economic stability, beneficial employment, reliable financial resources and environmentally friendly technology using human resources. Today, it is necessary to pay attention to economic sustainability, considering the challenges facing developing countries. In the current situation, attention to economic sustainability becomes more necessary, given the challenges and bottlenecks that settlements face.
On the other hand, discovering, understanding, and recognizing spatial patterns leads to a better understanding of phenomena and their relationships, actions, and interactions at the space level. The analysis of the elements of geographical space facilitates the mutual understanding of the phenomena and helps to simplify and create order in a vague and complex reality. Based on objective facts, rural settlements in Langaroud County need better economic stability. This issue is evident in cases such as high unemployment, poverty, low agricultural production, etc. Accordingly, the sustainable development of the rural economy is considered a goal to solve the problems and issues of rural areas in the study area. Therefore, this study seeks to answer two questions: First, what spatial pattern does the economic sustainability of rural settlements in Langroud County follow? And second, what is the relationship between the geographical location of rural areas and their level of economic stability?
Methodology
In terms of purpose, research is part of applied-developmental research. It is also descriptive-analytical in terms of analysis method. Research information was collected through field study and the use of the village questionnaire, and library-documentary studies. SPSS, GIS and Excel software have also been used to analyze the data. The study's statistical population is the Rural managers of more than 20 households in the city of Langroud, with 110 Rural managers in 7 villages, which has been done in total.
Discussion and conclusion
According to the research findings, in connection with the first purpose of the research (identifying the spatial pattern of economic sustainability of rural settlements in the study city), it was found that the spatial pattern of economic sustainability and its components (justice, stability, welfare), According to the results obtained from the general statistics of G, the statistics of general Moran and also the statistics of G, is random and one of the most important reasons is the randomness of the spatial pattern of the villages of the city, while in the research (2016) ), The spatial model of economic stability has been clustered; In his research, the spatial pattern of the villages was scattered, but the studied features formed a cluster, but in the present study, the spatial pattern of the villages was random, and the studied features were also random. The giver is that the studied villages have not been affected as much as possible by the surrounding villages. Concerning the second goal, namely the difference in geographical location and the level of economic stability of villages, studies have shown that sustainable villages are located in the plains of the city and as the natural and elevation position of villages goes to the foothills, Their economic stability is also reduced due to the recreational conditions of the mountain villages and the lack of easy access to the city, their dispersion, and the low population of these areas. Therefore, the research hypothesis related to the second question is confirmed that there is a difference between the natural and geographical location of villages and their level of economic stability. These results are consistent with the results of the research of Ghadiri Masoom et al. (2010), who concluded that the villages with the highest level of economic stability are located in the plains, like the current study that economically sustainable villages. There are villages located in the plains with large populations that are more extensive, have a natural location and good communication, and the level of job diversity is relatively higher in them.
According to the obtained results, it can be said that, in general, economic stability in the villages of Langroud county is at a weak level. The natural and communication situation of the villages is one of the most important factors that affect their level of economic stability; As the natural position of the villages moves towards the foothills, the level of economic stability decreases compared to other villages located in the plains. The results indicate that among the villages of Langroud county, the distribution of coefficients of economic stability components has been considerable. In other words, in each of the components of economic stability, several specific villages have the highest level of stability. Furthermore, economic stability in components has not occurred between common villages except in very few cases. In this regard, it can be acknowledged that despite some criteria as good economic stability. Other criteria, such as income level, job opportunities, and investments, are low. There were villages that, for example. The level of economic justice is high, and the level of economic stability is low. Therefore, the economic stability of villages has three components and various indicators that achieving the most desirable state requires the alignment and integration of all components and criteria of economic sustainability. Therefore, with a one-dimensional view of this process, we can not expect the desired results. However, it requires a comprehensive view and attention to all economic sustainability components in Langroud county's villages.
Khalil Mirzaei, Aazam Skakouri, Marjan Sepahpanah, Fereshteh Avatefiakmal, Masoud Samian,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Entrepreneurship in rural areas can create new job opportunities and increase income, leading to improved economic and living conditions for villagers. As a result, the concept of entrepreneurship has become more closely linked to the development of villages compared to the past. Encouraging rural entrepreneurship can contribute to rural communities' economic growth by recognizing the agricultural sector's strengths and weaknesses. This can be achieved through effective strategic planning, promoting creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Doing so helps prevent a policy of state-centralism, which prioritizes the convenience and obedience of villagers. Several benefits are associated with rural entrepreneurship, including the development of employment opportunities, reduction in rural migrations, increased income, and innovation. Despite these advantages, rural entrepreneurship has not yet flourished in Iran's rural communities, and entrepreneurial activity has not been institutionalized in these areas. Research conducted in various countries, including Iran, has revealed that rural entrepreneurship encounters numerous obstacles. These include limited access to skilled labor in rural regions, low levels of education, knowledge, and technical skills, and inadequate knowledge of information technology in rural areas.
Furthermore, the absence of a supportive family, societal, and support system environment does not foster rural entrepreneurship growth. It does not motivate rural individuals to pursue entrepreneurship as a career. Young and educated people often leave the villages and go to big cities hoping for a better future, more income, and easier life, and this phenomenon of brain drain causes a lack of reincarnation and matching between existing jobs and the workforce's skills. The rest is in the villages. It is important to acknowledge the significance of rural entrepreneurship in disadvantaged communities for implementing sustainable rural development programs and policies. However, there are numerous challenges that must be addressed in order to enhance this field and provide opportunities for employment. Developing strategies that can effectively reduce or eliminate these challenges and problems will help promote a better quality of life and livelihood for those living in rural areas.
Methodology
This research aimed to conduct an applied, analytical, and exploratory study. The necessary data was gathered through both library research and a questionnaire. In the initial phase, an environmental survey was utilized to identify the key factors that impact rural development in Hamedan Province, specifically in relation to entrepreneurship and home-based businesses. Faculty members of the agricultural development training group and rural planning experts confirmed the validity of extracted indicators. The statistical population of this research was ten experts and specialists in rural development and planning. In the next step, the interviewees are asked to declare their agreement or disagreement and their level with each title using a Likert scale. In other words, they are quantifiable. At this stage, the components that get a score lower than the average will be removed from the research, and the remaining components will enter the next stage. In the following, to identify the drivers among the key factors obtained in the previous section, a mutual effects questionnaire was designed and returned to the interviewees, and they were asked to score. The weighting of this questionnaire was measured as a pairwise comparison, and the correlation between the variables was measured between zero and three. MIC MAC software was used for data analysis in this research and this step. Wizard software was also used to develop scenarios.
Discussion and conclusion
The findings revealed that, apart from the current connections between the indicators, there were potential forms of relationships among them. These can be utilized in the planning process. The results show that the factors with the greatest impact on the system are investing enough financial resources in villages, providing women with a legitimate presence in various areas including politics, law, society, culture, economics, and operations, and defining a participatory planning model within the legal framework of Hamadan Province.
Some indicators have a greater impact than others on the state and changes of a system. These critical indicators are considered input variables that the system cannot control. The "Improvement of rural tourism infrastructure" index is a system risk index. It has a very high capacity to become the key player of the system because, due to its unstable nature, they have the potential to become the system's breaking point. The indicators of "Strengthening, creating confidence and raising awareness among villagers to meet their basic needs, such as free education in primary levels, university education, skills, job creation" and "Approval of laws to support rural businesses during severe currency fluctuations" are effective. They rely heavily on the changes in important and dual variables and are easily affected by them. These variables represent the system's output. After analyzing indicators in the Wizard software, two scenarios were identified. The first scenario, "Paying Attention to Local Planning," was one of them. This scenario had high compatibility. The elements of this reported scenario constitute a complete set of mutually supporting assumptions. Also the second scenario was called "sectional planning". According to the results of the research, local planning can be done in each of the villages of Hamadan Province, looking at the capacity and potential of that region for sustainable rural development.
Saeid Nasiri Zare, Vahid Riahi,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Publishing scientific papers is one of the most significant ways of sharing research outcomes. Experts and academics regularly publish their original studies and research in related fields through scientific publications. Scientific publications are now published in various fields worldwide, and their development requires meticulous and expert investigations. Scientometric studies are used as one of the scientific methods to examine the performance of scientific journals. Nowadays, scientific journals incorporate scientometrics in their daily decisions to investigate the influencing factors. Research with this approach to analyze The network of scientific cooperations and draw the topic of interesting articles in the scientific journal "Space Economy & Rural Development." Knowing the scientific collaborations and the topic of the articles can provide a comprehensive picture of the type of scientific activities of the journal authors and identify the research's strengths and weaknesses.
Methodology
This research is a quantitative study using scientometric research methods. Theoretical literature was studied using library research methods to gather information for the study's applied purpose. All articles published in the Journal Space Economy & Rural Development are examined in the research. Therefore, the statistical population includes all the articles published in the Journal, compiled by the authors, and accepted by the reviewers between 2011 and 2019. To analyze the scientific cooperation of the authors, the "Network Density," "Degree Centrality," "Betweenness Centrality," "Eigenvector Centrality," and "Clustering Coefficient" have been used. In order to facilitate comprehension of the magazine articles and establish connections between them, a keyword system was employed. The authors of said articles crafted a comprehensive list of keywords in the initial phase. Subsequently, these keywords were subjected to scrutiny, editing, and culling of duplicates. This yielded a set of distinct keywords for use in lexical analysis. At this stage, keywords such as the names of provinces - cities, Theories - models, and general expressions that did not express a specific topic were removed. In the end, 40 keywords remained, which were used for the final analysis. In order to analyze and interpret the results, Ravar Matrix was used to prepare the self-interaction matrix and the co-occurrence of crucial words, the Ucinet program was used to analyze the studied indicators, and according to the limitations of this program, the Gephi program was used to draw graphs and networks.
Discussion and conclusion
Examining and evaluating scientific literature have long been viewed as important for shaping future policies of scientific journals, research planning, and informed decision-making. One effective approach to achieving this goal is by utilizing scientometric analysis methods. In the Journal of space economy and rural development, 364 articles have been published in 9 periods and 36 issues, and the authorship pattern of the authors has been the collaboration of three authors. Most of the journal "Space Economy & Rural Development " articles focus on "Economic Development." "Tourism" and "agriculture" are two central issues in this field, and researchers have investigated the dimensions and fields of development of these businesses in rural areas. However, the subject of interest is to do these articles in a coherent scientific network between authors and researchers. In such a way, more scientific cooperation among authors helps productivity, innovation, and exchange of information. In the Journal of Space Economy & Rural Development, the complete scientific cooperation network has not been formed because the authors are in different scientific fields. This issue has shown the primary attention of the magazine to the subject of the articles without paying attention to the authors. However, among the authors, Ghadiri Masom, Motiee Langroudi, and Riyahi have had the highest number of connections in the Journal's scientific cooperation network. These authors and Rezvani are the most crucial mediators in controlling and transmitting information in the Journal's scientific network.
On the other hand, most authors were from the University of Tehran, Kharazmi and Payam Noor of Tehran, who have less desire to cooperate in the scientific network of the magazine with other authors. However, in order to realize the scientific development of the Journal, the planners of the Journal can encourage the scientific perspective of the Journal by presenting clear goals and accepting novel topics that have been given less attention in the field of rural development. The use of editorial boards with different scientific fields (according to the scientific network of the Journal, which represents various scientific expertise in this field) can also contribute to the quality of presenting and publishing articles in the Journal.
Fateh Habibi,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Tourism has become a crucial component of economic and manufacturing activities in both developed and developing countries. Tourist attractions, alongside other elements, serve as the foundation of the tourism industry and create the necessary conditions to attract visitors. Many developed countries have shown that focusing on tourism is crucial for national advancement and should be a top priority. Currently, there is fierce competition among countries to draw in tourists. Tourism is a dynamic industry with distinct characteristics, and it now contributes significantly to the economic and manufacturing sectors of both developed and developing nations. Iran's government has also emphasized tourism development in recent years, implementing various methods and approaches to promote social and economic growth in different regions. Tourism has experienced significant growth over the past 20 years, becoming one of the largest and most rapidly expanding industries worldwide. It has now become a primary economic sector in many countries, generating foreign exchange earnings on a large scale. By 2020, the number of international tourists globally is projected to rise to 1.6 billion, with tourism receipts expected to reach $200 billion. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) predicts that the travel and tourism industry will remain one of the largest in the world. In 2015, the industry contributed 9.8% to the global GDP and provided 279 million jobs. By 2025, it is expected to increase to 10.5% of the global GDP and create 356 million jobs.
Methodology
The development of Multi-Attribute Decision Procedures, including fuzzy models and multi-criteria fuzzy methods, has led to a significant breakthrough in sustainability analysis. One method that has gained considerable attention in this field is the TOPSIS technique, which stands for "Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution." TOPSIS is a method that identifies solutions from a finite set of alternatives using multiple criteria. This study aims to evaluate and prioritize cities in Kurdistan Province using the TOPSIS model. The objective of the study determines the research methodology and involves collecting descriptive data and conducting correlation analysis. The statistical population for this research comprises the residents of the villages under investigation.
Discussion and conclusion
Tourism can potentially increase foreign exchange earnings and generate employment, making it a crucial industry for the balanced and sustainable development of Kurdistan province. The sector can create the necessary conditions to attract more visitors by focusing on tourist attractions and other key elements. Many strategies to achieve this goal involve the development of rural and urban areas. Given the high unemployment rate and the need for foreign investment, prioritizing tourism can have significant benefits for the region. The objective of this study was to use the TOPSIS model to assess and rank cities in Kurdistan province based on tourism development indicators. This will facilitate effective and suitable planning. The findings from the one-sample t-test indicate that tourism has both positive and negative impacts on the host community. The economic impact is most prominently seen in terms of income and employment. Additionally, the positive perception of the local populace towards tourism is considered a key social and cultural benefit.
On the other hand, reduction of participation in rural development, loss of rural customs, culture, and local values, and inappropriate modeling of tourists are negative effects of tourism. The results showed that tourism has had adverse environmental effects by destroying the natural landscape of the village, irregular construction, and changing agricultural land use. Also, the ranking results show that the villages of Selin, Palangan, and Zhivar are ranked first to third, respectively. The villages of Balbar, Negel, Dolab, Salvatabad, Darahfi, Maghsah, Najne, Surin, Noura, and Ghomchaghi are ranked fourth to thirteenth, respectively. The sensitivity analysis results showed that Palangan, Celine, and Salavat Abad villages were ranked first to third in different conditions. According to the results, public sector investment in infrastructures, especially roads, and private sector investment is recommended in higher-ranked villages in eco-tourism, handicrafts, and related industries.
Gholamreza Amininejad, Yasser Zendehboudi, Masoumeh Norouzi,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
The beginning of settlements can be traced back to the practice of agriculture. The earliest civilizations in history were established in regions where agriculture was feasible due to favorable geographical and environmental factors. After the service sector, the agricultural sector in Iran is the largest economic sector. Focusing on agriculture can contribute to sustainable rural development, as well as help to mitigate social issues such as unemployment and migration. The agricultural sector is vital for achieving independence and sustainable development in Iran's national economy. Agricultural activities make up approximately 11.2% of the country's size. The majority of our villages are focused on agriculture and nearly half of the workers in rural areas are involved in this industry.The poverty in rural areas is due to the inefficiency of the rural economy, particularly in agriculture. This results in a lack of employment opportunities, income, and poor living standards. Therefore, there is an increasing need to focus on agriculture and rural development simultaneously. Agricultural and rural development are crucial for sustainable industrial growth. Without them, industrial growth will either fail or create serious internal imbalances in the economy, leading to issues such as widespread poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Tangestan County boasts great potential in agriculture, despite a shortage of potable and agricultural water. The fertile soil creates a conducive environment for agricultural activities, leading many locals to engage in farming. As a result, the county is regarded as a significant hub for agriculture. Regrettably, the agricultural sector in this city has received minimal attention in the development plans and economic policies. Consequently, farmers, particularly those in rural areas, are encountering significant challenges. This research aims to examine the role of the agricultural sector in the sustainable development of the villages of Mahmoud Ahmadi region and provide solutions to improve the agricultural situation by emphasizing tobacco production and increasing the amount of production per unit area, increasing their income and improving their standard of living.
Methodology
This study is descriptive and analytical, with a survey as its primary purpose. The library research method established the theoretical basis and identified existing components. The research approach used is a cross-sectional survey. For this research, the study area was the Ahram Rural District of Tangestan County, with a statistical population of 8,612 rural residents. Using Cochran's formula, a sample size of 330 people was determined and selected randomly. Because the questionnaires were research-made, the questions were matched with the research hypotheses and presented to professors and experts. After checking and confirming, 35 questions were selected for the implementation of the research and its validity. The reliability of the questionnaire was controlled and evaluated using Cronbach's alpha method (0.79). SPSS software was used to analyze data and information. According to the measurement level of variables, appropriate tests such as Pearson's correlation coefficient test have been used to examine the relationship between independent and dependent variables.
Discussion and conclusion
Based on the Pearson correlation coefficient test conducted in rural areas, it was found that there is a significant relationship (at p<0.05 level) between several factors: 1) agricultural development and sustainable rural development (coefficient of 0.451); 2) increased agricultural production and longer life expectancy (coefficient of 0.369); 3) the contribution of women to sustainable rural development (coefficient of 0.394); and 4) agricultural prosperity and social development (coefficient of 0.298). These findings were significant at a p-value of less than 0.05. In this study, it was determined that agriculture played an influential role in the development of the villages of the Mahmoud Ahmadi region, and the cultivation of tobacco as a strategic product was influential in creating employment for families and eliminating unemployment in the region. Additionally, it facilitated opportunities for women to enter the workforce. On the other hand, the results showed that with the prosperity of agriculture in the Mahmoud Ahmadi region, social problems and harms are reduced, and social development takes place, which seems that the results of this study can be used in other regions of the country. Tobacco is a popular product among Iranians, and it has been cultivated in Bushehr province, particularly in this region, for a considerable period. This could be a factor in persuading villagers to stay put and avoid migration to urban areas. If there is more planting and harvesting, employment will increase, and young people will have a greater desire to persevere. In general, agriculture in the Mahmoud Ahmadi region can be effective in the development and prosperity of villages in the region due to its favorable characteristics. These findings confirm that the planning and managing of rural development components is a trans-sectoral activity that requires a comprehensive approach and the coordination of different related sectors. Agriculture improves livelihoods, reduces unemployment, and promotes social development. Based on the results obtained, it is suggested to implement the following measures: 1) Offer incentive packages like guaranteed product purchase and identification of tobacco export markets, 2) Allocate funds and provide necessary facilities to launch irrigation methods and new agricultural techniques for enhancing production, 3) Encourage women's influential involvement in the economy through media and virtual space, 4) Identify economic activities carried out by rural women and organize them, 5) Establish a training and empowerment center in Ahram village to utilize their potential for rural development, and 6) Create processing and transformation industries for packaging of manufactured goods.
Nahid Isa Nejad, Ali Akbar Najafi Kani , Alireza Khajeh Shakooei,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
Today, one of the country's tourism patterns is second homes tourism, often common in mountainous regions with mild regions. The second homes are primarily located in spectacular areas, recreational places, and on the outskirts of large and medium-sized cities. Rural tourism is a reliable source of income in many countries and has an increasing impact on improving rural households' economic and physical situation. The current study investigates the consequences of second homes tourism in mountainous villages near the metropolis of Tehran.
Researchers believe that households living elsewhere buy or rent second homes. Such homes are usually located in rural areas and are used for recreational purposes and are also called weekend homes and holiday homes.
Second homes usually have four characteristics:
- A private home that family and guests often use on weekends and holidays.
-A private home that is alternately used as a holiday home.
- It is often purchased for retirement periods but is also used as a commercial property.
- Used as holiday homes, commercially as an investment, and usually by an agency.
Methodology
This study is applied with a descriptive and field descriptive method. According to the 1395 census, the statistical population of the current study is rural households living in 9 villages, totaling 5554 persons. 310 villages were chosen as the sample community using the Cochran algorithm, and data were analyzed using correlation analysis, Friedman, Kruskalvalis, and Linear regression in SPSS software.
Shemiranat is one of the counties of Tehran Province, considered an excellent tourism region of Iran, and consists of two districts: Lavasanat and Rudbar-e Qasran. According to the census of 2016, Rudbar-e Qasran District has a population of 17419. The Qasran Bastani region includes Oushan, Fasham, Darbandsar, Gajereh, and the villages at the foothill of Tochal to the western areas of the Jajrud River. Contrary to many peoples’ beliefs, the language of the people of Rudbar-e Qasran District in most neighborhoods, especially Meygun, Shahrestanak, Lalan, Zayegan, Ruteh, Garmabdar, Shemshak, and Darbandsar, is Mazandarani.
Discussion and conclusion
The results of Chi-square, Spearman, and Kendall correlation analysis demonstrate that the construction of second homes has a substantial association with a 99 percent confidence level with physical changes in villages and improved economic indicators. Friedman's findings also rank the most effective elements in recruiting tourists and increasing second houses. Kruskal-Wallis's findings reveal that second-home tourism affects all communities analyzed in terms of physical and economic characteristics and that they are all similar. The results of the linear regression test reveal that, depending on the variables evaluated, the investigated components are acceptable and significant. The coefficient of determination indicates that around 95% of the development is determined by the variables analyzed, with only about 5% depending on variables not discovered in this study.
The second homes are part of the tourism industry, which aims to use and introduce natural, cultural, historical, and other resources in the region to tourists to create opportunities for tourism development, which creates business in rural areas. Second homes can also be considered a potential product that elevates the level of society and puts the country in the tourism industry.
In this regard, sustainable tourism emerged as the only solution to save nature and human beings. From this perspective, the paradigm of sustainable tourism examines tourism across borders. The tourism industry creates a triangular relationship between the host community, their territory, and the guest community (tourists). The goal is to alleviate any pressure or crises that may arise and achieve a long-term balance between all three parties.
Ali Janabi Namin, Ahad Norouzzadeh,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
In the current situation, the rural society of the country, especially the villages of Ardabil Province, is plagued with many issues and problems, including low income, poverty, migration, evacuation of villages, and low availability of health and welfare services. The main characteristic of all existing issues and problems is related to the weak economic foundations of people and their unstable employment situation. According to experts, one of the necessary solutions to solve these issues and problems is the output and development of entrepreneurship, especially in the villages, emphasizing tasks. Watershed management is conducted in the province, and the ultimate goal of implementing these plans is the well-being of the watershed residents.
Methodology
The current research was conducted in two qualitative (thematic analysis) and quantitative stages to design and validate the entrepreneurship model and sustainable rural development, emphasizing watershed management projects. This research is exploratory in terms of purpose and descriptive in terms of type, which was carried out in the field in Ardabil Province. The research was first qualitative interview type and the second quantitative survey method. The statistical population of the research in the first stage was 20 professors of management and watershed management and senior supervisors of the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Watershed Management of Ardabil Province. In the second stage, 200 respondents from beneficiaries of watershed management projects in Ardabil Province were selected for the structural equation modeling method. During the first stage of this research, we conducted in-depth and semi-structured interviews to collect data. In the second stage, we used a redesigned questionnaire with closed answers (using the Likert scale) to collect information based on the indicators of the entrepreneurship model and sustainable rural development, focusing on watershed management projects.
Discussion and conclusion
The coding results show that the factors influencing the formation of this pattern were categorized into seven more primary factors (promotion, providing sustainable resources, tourism, social, economic, new jobs, participation, and empowerment) and 38 concepts (open codes). Based on the research results and among the extracted main components, the tourism component, with a path coefficient of 0.902, has had the greatest impact on the sustainable entrepreneurship of the villagers based on the implemented watershed management plans. Finally, among the influential components in the sustainable entrepreneurship of villagers based on implemented watershed projects, the "promotion" component with a path coefficient of 0.759 has had the most negligible impact in the designed model.
Javad Vahabi, Mohammad Baset Ghoreishi , Nasrollah Molaei Hashjin,
Volume 12, Issue 43 (4-2023)
Abstract
Introduction
The concept of water resources management changes over time with various factors, such as environmental knowledge, technology, and recognition of the difference in the value of water resources. Water resources management is affected by various economic, social, political, cultural, and technical factors. Accordingly, the concept of sustainable management of agricultural water resources has been raised in response to the issues of inappropriate use of water resources and harmful environmental effects and the traditional agricultural economy. Reducing water resources increases the cost of new water resource provision, and usually, developing countries cannot meet these costs. Therefore, the optimal consumption and the correct management of the supply and demand of existing water resources are proposed to meet the economic cost. Water will be an effective agent. Many scientists have studied the relationship between water and economic development from different aspects, for example, in the case of natural disasters like floods and droughts. The results of studies have shown that available water for agriculture and economic development, and investment in water infrastructure, especially in the agricultural sector, reduce poverty in some African countries. Development generally means improving the material and spiritual level of human society and creating suitable conditions for a healthy life for all members of society. According to this concept, development includes economic, social, political, and cultural aspects, which include quantitative and qualitative changes. The desired purpose of development is to improve the quality of life for everyone. Therefore, the effort to achieve development should be in a way that includes the interests of most people.
Methodology
This article is a survey-based analysis, which means it focuses on a small portion of society, specifically village officials and farmer households in the study area. The necessary data was collected through a questionnaire. The statistical population of the research is the villages of the central floodplain of Gilan, which includes village officials and farmer households of the villages of the study area. 384 questionnaires were randomly completed. Then, the questionnaire was analyzed using SPSS software and with relevant statistical tests.
Discussion and conclusion
The results showed that, according to 50% of respondents, agricultural water resources management has a moderate effect on increasing the diversity of agricultural activities, 46.8% on increasing purchasing power and housing construction, and 42.2% on reducing costs. Production in the agricultural sector is considered low. From the perspective of 27.6% of respondents, the effect of agricultural water resource management on reducing production costs in the agricultural sector is high, and 44.3% has a moderate effect on the area under cultivation of agricultural products. According to the survey, 25.6% of respondents believe that the impact of agricultural water resource management on expanding the cultivation area of agricultural products is minimal. Out of the respondents, 38.3% believe that agricultural water resources management moderately improves their satisfaction with life in the village, while 29.7% think it also moderately enhances their satisfaction.
Additionally, 30.5% of the respondents stated that agricultural water resources management has significantly impacted increasing attention toward transformation industries in agriculture. It has been found through research that managing agricultural water resources has significant effects on various aspects of agriculture and rural communities. Specifically, it has a 34.7% impact on agricultural production growth, a 29.4% impact on agricultural output increase, a 50.3% impact on rural employment generation, and a 50.11% impact on the income and well-being of villagers in the central plains of Gilan Province.
Sajad Amiri, Amirhossein Garakani, Adel Soleimani, Firoozeh Moghiminejad,
Volume 13, Issue 47 (6-2024)
Abstract
Objective: Integrated rural development planning is the result of a series of different developments in planning, economy, politics and sociology in the last decade, which has become necessary due to globalization and decentralization on a local or regional scale. This type of thinking mechanism planning It is based and problem-oriented and seeks to answer the three basic questions of what, why and how in a people-oriented and place-oriented framework and deals with this issue with integrated rationality. Planning issues and problems have emerged at the national level. The examination and evaluation of the ecosystem within the realm of global studies pertaining to integrated development planning hold significant importance, specifically in light of institutional pluralism, aimed at mitigating disparities in rural areas. Numerous insights can be gleaned from research outcomes and strategies in the realm of development and rural progress. Hence, the primary objective of the present study is to methodically scrutinize the knowledge network concerning integrated development planning by scrutinizing the co-occurrence network of terminologies and collaborative authorship within this domain, in order to uncover patterns of knowledge, origins, and their limitations.
Methods: This research is applied in terms of type, which uses the scientometric approach to review scientific documents. In the current research, the social network analysis method has been used to analyze and explain both vocabulary and authorship of related studies in the entire network. In the initial phase of the methodology, data was retrieved from the Scopus database, followed by stages of refining concepts, and ultimately, the conclusive data was scrutinized utilizing algorithms grounded in social network analysis through VOSviewer software.
Results: The findings revealed that among 93 scholarly works and 191 authors, countries like South Africa, England, and the United States exhibited the highest number of publications, with scholars such as Madziohendila, Van Niekerk, Asha, and Banda receiving notable references. Furthermore, the intellectual cluster associated with Chakwizera demonstrated the highest density within the network. Also, the results of this study showed that researches on integrated development planning have been carried out from different dimensions and in diverse and related ecosystems in such a way that it covers different levels and links from urban to rural spaces. Analysis of word co-occurrence also brought to light 6 distinct research clusters within the scope of integrated development planning studies, focusing on aspects like comprehensiveness, urban planning, local governance, participation, sustainable development, and spatial justice.
Conclusions: The insights garnered from scrutinizing the knowledge network and visualizing its structure in this study could potentially yield significant advancements in adopting a comprehensive, rational, and expert-driven approach to socio-political planning, thereby opening up new avenues for further study and implementation.
Dr. Mohsen Aghayari Hir, Dr. Hossein Asgharpur, Dr. Soheyla Bakhtar,
Volume 13, Issue 47 (6-2024)
Abstract
Objective: The present research was conducted with the aim of identifying and analyzing economic factors affecting the acceptance of organic agriculture in Tabriz County.
Methods: The population of this study consists of producers and consumers of Tabriz County. The community of producers in the County is composed of 28 person. Due to their limited number, they were studied in full. In the consumer community, the sample size was estimated to be 384 person, but to achieve better results, 391 questionnaires were completed. In order to analyze the data, structural equation modeling was used in Smart PLS software and one-sample t-tests and Friedman in SPSS software.
Results: The results of the measurement model indicate that the loads of the observed agents with their hidden variables have significant values, and the observed agents have measured their hidden variables well. Also, there is a significant structural relationship between price perception, providing support facilities, product distribution, product preparation method, product price, product features, product quality, and willingness to pay. The obtained values of T, the average and the upper and lower limits of the factors affecting the acceptance of organic agriculture from the producers' point of view, had higher values than the standard set. The results of Friedman's test showed that the price of the product has the highest importance and the provision of support facilities has the lowest importance.
Conclusions: Comparing and examining the views of two producer and consumer groups shows that the economic dimension has had a major effect on the adoption of organic agriculture. Also, factors such as having high prices for products, costs and prices offered for a specific brand, an appropriate marketing system, etc. are among the factors that have affected the economic aspect of adopting organic agriculture.