Perspectives of the Silent Majority: Air Pollution, Livelihood and Food Security : Indepth Studies Through Pra Methods on Community Perspectives in Urban and Peri-Urban Areas of Varanasi

by Amitava Mukherjee

Almost 70 percent of India's population depend on agriculture to survive. Although impressive advances have been made in India's food production, much hunger still exists in less developed regions. Do progressive regions advance at the cost of others? In addressing these key issues, the book analyzes through empirical study how the rise in pollution from industrialization and urbanization has affected crops, crop yields, agriculture and food security. Important insights are given on the role of agriculture in the communities' livelihoods, the nature of agricultural constraint, the impact of air pollution on health status and quality of life and the support systems for addressing the problems of farmers and poor communities.
Presenting the views of the communities living in urban and peri-urban areas where industrialization and/or urbanization is happening, this compelling volume provides a rare opportunity to hear the voices of those most affected.

440 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001