Impact of arecanut area expansion on social and natural capital of farmers in Chitradurga District of Karnataka

Abstract

The rapid expansion of arecanut cultivation into non-traditional regions of Karnataka has led to notable shifts in both the social and natural capital of farming communities. This study investigates the dual impact of this agricultural transformation, examining how increased arecanut area influences farmers' livelihoods, social participation, and resource utilization. Findings indicate that while arecanut farming has enhanced and strengthened social networks by increased organisation participation and extension contact. It has also contributed to environmental concerns such as proper utilization available water resources by adopting water conservation methods like drip and sprinkler irrigation, measures to increase the soil fertility by land development activities. The study highlights the trade-offs between social gain and ecological sustainability.