A Comprehensive Study of Sanjenbam Village, Imphal East District, Manipur: Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Rural Livelihoods

Abstract

Rural livelihoods in Northeast India are predominantly dependent on agriculture and allied activities, yet their sustainability is increasingly challenged by climatic variability, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to modern technologies. The present study was undertaken to comprehensively assess the natural resource base, agricultural production systems, livelihood activities, and socioeconomic conditions of Sanjenbam village in Imphal East district, Manipur, with the objective of identifying key constraints and development opportunities for sustainable rural development. Primary data were collected through household surveys, participatory rural appraisal, field observations, focus group discussions, and interactions with village stakeholders, while secondary information was obtained from government records and published sources. The study revealed that paddy cultivation, livestock rearing, handloom weaving, and handicraft production constitute the principal livelihood activities of the village. Livestock and backyard poultry contributed substantially to household income, whereas handloom and Kouna-based handicrafts emerged as important non-farm enterprises, particularly for rural women. Despite possessing abundant natural resources, fertile
soils, and a skilled farming community, the village faces multiple constraints including inadequate irrigation facilities, erratic rainfall, poor extension services, limited mechanization, weak market linkages, shortage of quality agricultural inputs, and insufficient access to institutional credit and Government development programs. The study highlights the need for integrated interventions encompassing irrigation development, crop diversification, mechanization, entrepreneurship promotion, value addition, market strengthening, institutional convergence, and capacity building to improve agricultural productivity, livelihood resilience, and sustainable rural development in Sanjenbam village. The findings provide a valuable baseline for planners, policymakers, extension agencies, and development organizations in designing location-specific interventions for rural transformation in the village.