Determinants of Poverty in Rural Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Despite being one of the most agriculturally productive regions in Pakistan, rural Punjab continues to grapple with persistent poverty and income inequality. This study aims to investigate the multifaceted determinants of poverty in rural Punjab, shedding light on the interplay of factors such as access to education, healthcare, land ownership, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development. A sample of 300 households from the rural areas of Punjab was selected conveniently. A well-structured, pretested questionnaire was used to collect the primary data. The Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was used for the analysis. According to the results of the study, the variable of family members has a significant positive effect on household income. Variables of agricultural land have a significant negative effect on household income. Variables of other land have a significant positive effect on household income. The variable of the region has a significant positive effect on household income. The variable of the number of livestock has a significant positive effect on household income. Variables in the use of technology have a significant positive effect on household income. Variables of market availability have a significant positive effect on household income. It is recommended that the government should Encourage family-oriented policies and support systems to strengthen household income and Develop programs promoting skill development and employment opportunities for family members. The government should Periodically review and update policies to adapt to changing economic and social conditions.