PATTERNS OF AGRICULTURAL WORK FORCE IN HIMACHAL PRADESH: A SPATIAL ANALYSIS

The paper attempts to examine the Spatial patterns of the Agricultural Workforce of Himachal Pradesh at the District Level. The data on the Agricultural Workforce for the census year 2011 is taken from the Statistical Abstract of Himachal Pradesh. Maps are prepared to show the percentage of total workers, cultivators, and agricultural labourers. The number of workers in district Kinnaur is higher than in other districts, while the number in district Una is lower due to urbanization, technology, etc. The research uncovered a distinct trend wherein regions characterized by challenging geo-climatic conditions and constrained economic diversification, notably mountainous areas and northeastern regions, exhibited a noticeable occurrence of agricultural labour. This finding underscores the resilience of agriculture as a primary economic activity in areas where alternative livelihood options are scarce. Conversely, regions boasting expansive landholdings and a spectrum of economic opportunities, such as the central parts, displayed a more moderate concentration of agricultural workers. This suggests a nuanced interplay between land availability, economic diversification, and the composition of the labour force. By identifying regions of concentration of the agricultural workforce, policymakers can develop targeted interventions to support agricultural development and enhance livelihood opportunities. Future research should investigate underlying drivers and their implications for rural communities’ socio-economic well-being.