6. Census Towns in Gujarat: Economic, Social and Environmental Effects of Rural Transformation

The Census of India presents a rich data source regarding demography, workforce and amenities for the towns. However, primary survey was conducted of randomly selected households along with focus group discussions in the selected census towns to ascertain the social impacts of urbanism and changes in lifestyles and consumption patterns. In the sixth chapter the data gathered was tabulated to draw general inferences and identify peculiarities, if any. Tabulation highlighted the general features of the case studies, including the changes in economic activities and nature of dominant non-farm activity. Examination of the commuting and migration patterns established linkages of the town, and highlighted the economic and employment constraints. The impact of urbanism on changing lifestyles, consumption expenditure (food, non-food, education and health) and social impacts were quite revealing. Lastly, using information collected from field explorations and discussion with residents, the negative externalities of the urbanisation and rural transformation process on environment were ascertained. The concluding section sought to identify the stress areas of the transformation process in the case studies, as a prelude to making suggestions for policy.