DETERMINANTS OF GROSS INCOME IN THE BORDER AREA OF PUNJAB: A CASE STUDY OF AMRITSAR DISTRICT

Abstract This study examines the socio-economic condition of rural labor and marginal former households in the border area of Punjab, specifically in the Amritsar District. A sample of 150 households comprising 86 rural laborers and 64 marginal former households was surveyed in August 2020. The results show that marginal former households have, on average, an operational landholding of 1.86 acres, with a significant portion of land taken on rent. The study analyzes the determinants of gross income and finds that the average annual gross income and rural labor marginal former household are Rs 87,592.28 and Rs 234,834.83, respectively. Despite these incomes, households face deprivation, insufficient income, and subsistence living conditions. The study recommended implementing multifaceted employment opportunities, incentives for daily farming, cost-effective agriculture practices, and sustainable and inclusive growth strategies for the rural border economy.