Agrarian Structure as a Factor in Rural Poverty-Some Cross-Section Evidence

Some Cross-Section Evidence H S Shergill This paper investigates the role of agrarian structure in rural poverty. A highly skewed land distribution, proletarianisation of sizeable sections of the rural population, widespread share-tenancy and interlocked factor markets are some of the more regressive features of the existing agrarian production relations that are supposed to not only inhibit the transition to a more progressive agriculture but also block even the 'trickle-down' of benefits to the rural poor of whatever little increase in farm production occurs in such a socio-economic milieu. How valid is this supposition?