Determinants of Livelihood: Evidence from Char and Plain Regions of Assam

Abstract

Riverine islands (chars) along the Brahmaputra region in Assam are ecologically vulnerable, lacking socio-economic benefits. The unavailability of empirical data related to the dynamics of livelihood in the riverine char regions leads to the current situation being unknown. Based on the primary household survey across the char and plain regions of four districts in Assam, the study employs a multiple linear regression model to examine the relationship between the household size, landholding, livestock, household education, days worked and geographical location (char vs plain), which influences household income. Regression estimates indicate that family size, landholding, and labour participation (in days worked) have played central roles in the improvement of income, underscoring the importance of family labour and the nature of land available to cultivation, especially in Char areas. Education, livestock ownership and location, by contrast, are not significant predictors under the present structure, suggesting no immediate translation into income returns. Policy implications emphasise the need to adopt stronger programmes for public employment, enhance productivity on land through offering non-farm options and improve skill development. These gaps are critical to building powerful livelihoods in both char and plain populations in Assam in the interest of reducing poverty.