Capital Meets Cultivation: Agricultural Transformation in Assam’s Kamrup (Rural) District.

Abstract

The transformation of agriculture through capital-intensive technology has significantly reshaped farming practices in India. This study examines the impact of such technological advancements in the Kamrup (Rural) district of Assam, focusing on the adoption of High Yielding Varieties (HYVs), mechanization, irrigation facilities, and agricultural extension services. Despite the introduction of capital-intensive technology, the transformation has been partial, with limited crop diversification and infrastructural challenges. The research, conducted through a field survey of 90 farming households across six villages, highlights the uneven distribution of modern agricultural inputs, financial constraints, and the farmers' reliance on traditional crops, primarily rice. While mechanization and irrigation have improved productivity, challenges such as the high cost of farm inputs, inadequate institutional credit access, and lack of efficient marketing channels persist. The study underscores the need for enhanced government intervention in infrastructure development, streamlined credit facilities, and improved agricultural extension services. It advocates for increased farmer awareness and integration of information technology to optimize farming decisions and market access. Ultimately, the research suggests that a holistic approach encompassing technological, financial, and institutional support is essential for sustainable agricultural transformation in Assam.