2025, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part C

This study examines the socio-economic transformation in Western Uttar Pradesh’s sugarcane belt by analyzing agrarian changes, rural livelihoods, and evolving social structures. It explores why sugarcane cultivation dominates the region, how agricultural practices have transformed over time, and the implications of these shifts on the socio-economic profile of local communities. Additionally, the study assesses education and healthcare access in selected villages and the changing social patterns influenced by economic and agrarian transitions. The research is based on primary data collected through semi-structured interviews conducted in three villages—Alipur, SohanJani, and LaluKheri—in Muzaffarnagar district. A qualitative approach was adopted to capture the lived experiences of farmers, laborers, and other stakeholders involved in the sugarcane economy. Secondary data sources, including government reports and scholarly literature, complement the analysis by providing historical and policy-driven context.

The findings reveal that sugarcane cultivation persists due to government support, the presence of sugar mills, and the crop’s relatively stable economic returns. However, mechanization and shifting landholding patterns have altered traditional farming practices. Disparities in access to education and healthcare persist, creating challenges for rural communities. Social structures are also evolving, with changing caste dynamics and migration trends reshaping the region. While sugarcane remains a key economic driver in Western Uttar Pradesh, rural communities are undergoing gradual but complex transformations. The intersection of agrarian change, socio-economic mobility, and policy interventions continues to shape the region’s development trajectory. Addressing infrastructural gaps and ensuring inclusive growth remains essential for sustaining long-term progress in the sugarcane belt.