Articles by S Galab

Based on fieldwork, this paper examines the problems and prospects of the handloom sector in Andhra Pradesh. One major finding is that the growth performance of cooperatives determines the growth of other institutions - the master weavers, middle men and independent weavers. Well-performing cooperatives are the best safeguard for the handloom sector, as they protect the weaver and also provide a counterbalance to the master weaver. Competition from powerlooms is an obvious threat, but this can be countered if the sector produces high value, unique (brand value) products or medium value products which can be marketed locally or abroad, as distinct from powerloom products.

The agrarian crisis is pushing farmers into distress and ultimately to suicides. It is argued that the cumulative effect of a number of factors is responsible for the present agrarian crisis. These factors, categorised as technological, ecological, socio-cultural and policy-related, are discussed here.

This paper examines trends in rural and urban poverty in Andhra Pradesh. It also looks at the role of poverty alleviation programmes in eradicating poverty. While the incidence of poverty shows a significant decline, policy interventions such as provision of education and healthcare facilities, food subsidy and rural public works can benefit the chronically poor and those unable to participate in the growth process.