A study on the consequence of corporate domination on livelihood of rural people in Dindigul District

 Corresponding author: R Vignesh Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. A study on the consequence of corporate domination on livelihood of rural people in Dindigul District V Seema 1, R Vignesh 1, *, L Meena 2, H Samuel Thavaraj 1, G Sivaraja 3 and V Umamaheshwari 4 1 Department of Rural Industries and Management, School of Management Studies, The Gandhigram Rural Institute Deemed to be University, Dindigul Dist., Tamil Nadu, India. 2 Department of MBA, Fatima College (Autonomous), Madurai Dist., Tamil Nadu, India. 3 Department of Business Administration (SF), Thiagarajar College, Madurai Dist., Tamil Nadu, India. 4 Department of Business Administration, St.Antonys College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Thamaraipadi, Dindigul Dist., Tamil Nadu, India. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 26(01), 4210-4215 Publication history: Received on 26 February 2025; revised on 05 April 2025; accepted on 07 April 2025 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2025.26.1.1096 Abstract This study examined the corporate-led industrialization affects the livelihoods of rural communities in the SIDCO region of Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study looks into the socio-economic and environmental dimensions of rapid industrial growth, focusing on aspects like job creation, skill development, and resource management, while also considering mental health challenges, pollution, and environmental degradation. Data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 77 participants, yielding a diverse range of insights. The quantitative analysis revealed that while industrial growth enhances job opportunities, daily wages, and skill development, it also exacerbates mental health problems, pollution, and resource depletion. Different perspectives on healthcare access and environmental improvements were observed, which highlights the need for more targeted policy interventions. By connecting the findings with existing literature on urbanization and industrialization, this study emphasizes the necessity of crafting sustainable industrial policies that balance economic benefits with social and environmental well-being. Keywords: Industrialization; Rural Livelihoods; Environmental Impact; Socio-Economic Development; Sustainability Strategies 1. Introduction The rapid industrialization of rural areas in India has had a profound impact on both socio-economic conditions and environmental factors(Ramesh, 2022). A prime example of this transformation is the Dindigul district in southern Tamil Nadu, particularly through its industrial hub, the Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO)(Suresh et al., 2023). In recent decades, this region has seen a significant rise in industrial activities, making it a crucial case for exploring the broader implications of corporate influence on rural livelihoods(Seema, 2022). While industrial growth is often associated with economic development, it also brings challenges related to environmental sustainability, social equity, and resource management(Kahramanoglu et al., 2022). This research aims to assess the effects of swift industrialization on the livelihoods of rural populations in the Dindigul district, focusing on both environmental and socio-economic aspects. The study will seek to identify the environmental repercussions of industrial expansion, such as pollution, resource depletion, and health concerns(Agarwal & Behera, 2022). Furthermore, it will examine how industrialization affects the livelihoods of rural communities in terms of job opportunities, income levels, and mental health. This research employed a descriptive framework, gathering primary data through structured questionnaires World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 26(01), 4210-4215 4211 sent to a representative sample of individuals affected by industrialization in the SIDCO area of the Dindigul district(Sysoeva et al., 2022). We collected 77 responses that showcased a variety of perspectives on important issues like access to healthcare, job opportunities, pollution, mental health, and environmental degradation. The data analysis was carried out quantitatively, with results presented through percentage distributions and bar charts to provide a clear view of public sentiment and emerging trends(Handayani et al., 2023). The methodology emphasized descriptive statistics to offer an objective evaluation of the complex impacts of industrialization in Dindigul(Thavaraj, 2024). The analysis of the collected data reveals a complex relationship between industrial growth and its impact on rural communities(Bhaskaran, 2023). While industrialization has created job opportunities and increased wages, it has also brought about challenges related to mental health, environmental sustainability, and the depletion of natural resources(Vignesh and Soundarapandian). The results of this study highlight the need for policymakers to develop strategies that reconcile the economic benefits of industrial expansion with the possible social and environmental consequences(Melo et al., 2020). By clarifying these impacts, this research provides valuable insights that can guide future industrial development in rural areas, fostering growth that is both sustainable and fair(Thavaraj & Haorei, 2020). This study draws on existing literature to place its findings within the broader context of urbanization and industrialization in India, uncovering similar trends and challenges faced in other regions(Ahamad & Pandey, 2015). In conclusion, this research offers a comprehensive understanding of how industrialization shapes the rural landscape and affects the livelihoods of people in the SIDCO area of Dindigul district. Objectives of study • To Identify the Environmental Impacts of Rapid Industrialization. • To Examine Environmental Sustainability and Resource Management Amid Industrial Growth. 2. Methodology This research employs a descriptive framework to explore the impacts of rapid industrialization on various socioeconomic and environmental aspects(Koshcheev et al., 2021). Data were collected from primary sources through a structured questionnaire distributed to a representative sample of participants(Haorei et al., 2023). The respondents included individuals who are either directly or indirectly influenced by rapid industrialization in the SIDCO area of Dindigul district. A total of 77 responses were gathered, ensuring a wide range of perspectives within this context. The questionnaire included multiple-choice questions that assessed opinions on 12 key factors, such as healthcare access, environmental conditions, mental health, pollution, job creation, and resource depletion. The responses were then analyzed in terms of absolute counts and percentages, providing a comprehensive understanding of opinion distribution(Patnaik, 2018). Data were organized into tables for clarity and visualization, with results presented through bar charts and percentage analyses to highlight trends and correlations(Abhishek & Biswas, 2022). The methodology emphasizes quantitative analysis, enabling an objective evaluation of the complex effects associated with industrialization(Sengupta & Chakraborty, 2022). The use of descriptive statistics allows for a clear interpretation of findings while maintaining the necessary depth to explore intricate dynamics(Athreya, 2022). This approach provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to balance industrial development with social and environmental priorities. 3. Review Of Literature Singh, Abha Lakshmi, and Mansoor Alam Siddiqui (2008) carried out a study to assess how urban expansion affects rural areas, particularly looking at the loss of agricultural land and its shift to non-agricultural uses. Their research included a comprehensive survey of around 130 villages, along with questionnaires and interviews. The results showed that the urban population has increased five times, while the urban area has grown six times. As a result, agricultural lands are being increasingly converted for residential development, which is causing significant damage to the natural landscape near the city(Singh & Siddiqui, 2008). Apurbarabe, Ghosh, and Ina (2007) carried out a study on the dynamics of slum distribution in Kolkata, focusing on the spatial variations linked to slum growth. Their research seeks to pinpoint the mean centres of slum populations, highlighting a significant trend of slum expansion towards the outskirts of the city(Ghosh & Ina, 2007). Saxena (2009) discusses the difficulties that the urban poor in India face concerning water supply. In slum areas, the situation is particularly severe, as residents do not have access to water provided by the government. Instead, they often resort to illegally tapping into municipal water lines. These slums are typically located in polluted and unsanitary conditions, which disproportionately affect women and children. The latter frequently miss important educational World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 26(01), 4210-4215 4212 opportunities because they are tasked with collecting water. Living in these circumstances also leads to extra expenses, as residents have to pay informal vendors for water, creating both a financial strain and an opportunity cost. While the community is both willing and able to pay for a reliable water supply, government support is still lacking(Guchhait & Dasgupta, 2009). Mishra, R. N. and Sharma, Pawan Kumar (2007) explored the functional patterns of towns in Rajasthan. The functions of a town play a crucial role in shaping its morphology and are essential to urban life. This research lays a strong groundwork for regional development planning. A key aim of the paper was to classify all urban centres in Rajasthan based on their functional roles. The towns were divided into four distinct categories: very highly specialized, moderately specialized, and less specialized towns. The study highlighted significant differences in the dominant functions and their distribution throughout the region(Mishra & Sharma, 2007). Sastry, G. S. (2008) examined the patterns and challenges of urbanization in Karnataka. The shift from primary to nonprimary economic activities has been driven by changes in resource availability and environmental conditions. The state's advantageous location has played a key role in promoting industrial and commercial growth, which in turn has fueled urbanization. Moreover, the development of infrastructure has been essential to this urban expansion(Sastry, 2008). Guchhait, Sanat K. and Abhik Dasgupta (2009) explored the spatial distribution and zoning of urban functions in the northeastern part of Kolkata. Their study focused on the functional classification of towns within the Kolkata metropolitan area, providing a detailed analysis of municipal units. They examined the functional relationships by sequentially plotting correlation values among neighbouring municipalities. Additionally, they illustrated the concept of functional chorology by graphically representing Z score values and converting location quotient values into Z values for this analysis(Guchhait & Dasgupta, 2009). Table 1 Distribution for Rapid Industrialization Factors Factors Yes No May be Total Rapid Industrialization Helps People to Get Health Care Facilities 37 (48.1) 22 (28.6) 18 (23.4) 77 (100) Rapid Industrialization Improves the Environmental Structure Around Your Area 37 (48.1) 22 (28.6) 18 (23.4) 77 (100) Rapid Industrialization Affects Mental Health of Your Urban People 24 (31.2) 25 (32.5) 28 (36.4) 77 (100) It Induces People in Anxiety and Stress 44 (57.1) 33 (42.9) - 77 (100) It Increases the Noise Pollution and Other Pollution in Your Area 31 (40.3) 21 (27.3) 22 (32.5) 77 (100) Rapid Industrialization Works Help You in Job Creation / Employment 43 (55.8) 19 (24.7) 15 (19.5) 77 (100) It Increases the Daily Wages of Employees 54 (70.1) 23 (29.9) - 77 (100) Rapid Industrialization Focuses on Skill Development and Training of Employees 44 (57.1) 18 (23.4) 15 (19.5) 77 (100) It Forces You into Job Displacement 44 (57.1) 33 (42.9) - 77 (100) Rapid Industrialization Follows Green Job 38 (49.1) 20 (26.0) 19 (24.7) 77 (100) Environmental Degradation has Increased Due to Rapid Industrialization 29 28 20 77 World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 26(01), 4210-4215 4213 (37.7) (36.4) (26) (100) Rapid Industrialization Causes Any Depletion of Natural Resources in Your Area 37 (48.1) 17 (22.1) 23 (29.9) 77 (100) Source: Primary data Note: Figures within parentheses denote the percentage Table 1 shows that 48.1 percent of healthcare respondents believe that industrialization enhances access to healthcare facilities, while 28.6 percent disagree and 23.4 percent are unsure. A similar pattern is seen regarding environmental structure, with 48.1 percent viewing industrialization positively and 28.6 percent holding opposing views, indicating a split opinion on the environmental benefits of industrial growth. The impact on mental health is more contentious, as responses vary among yes, no, and maybe, with 36.4 percent expressing uncertainty. Notably, 57.1 percent of respondents recognize that industrialization contributes to anxiety and stress, highlighting significant mental health challenges in urban populations. The study also uncovers a range of environmental concerns, with 40.3 percent of participants acknowledging increased pollution, including noise, while 32.5 percent remain uncertain. This distribution underscores the necessity of assessing pollution control strategies to address community worries. Economically, rapid industrialization is generally seen as beneficial, with 55.8 percent supporting job creation and 70.1 percent noting higher daily wages, illustrating that industrialization greatly improves employment opportunities and wage growth. Additionally, 57.1 percent of respondents believe that industrialization promotes skill development and training, reflecting enhanced workforce capabilities, while the same percentage also links industrialization to job displacement, highlighting the complex labour dynamics that arise from industrial growth. Regarding environmental sustainability, 49.1 percent view industrialization as a driver of green jobs, while 37.7 percent and 48.1 percent recognize environmental degradation and resource depletion, respectively. This identified a nuanced viewpoint, where industrial benefits coexist with environmental drawbacks. These results, displayed through both absolute and percentage breakdowns, offer critical insights for policymakers. While industrialization supports economic growth, the responses indicate significant concerns about mental health, environmental pollution, and resource depletion, stressing the importance of balanced approaches to sustainable development and welfare within the affected communities. This quantitative analysis thus provides a data-driven foundation for stakeholders aiming to mitigate negative impacts while leveraging industrialization’s benefits. Source: Computed from Primary data Figure 1 Response distribution for rapid industrialization factors Figure 1 indicates the responses are distributed regarding different factors related to rapid industrialization in the SIDCO region of the Dindigul district. Several clear trends can be observed from the data. There is strong support for the economic advantages of industrialization, with many participants noting that it leads to job creation and higher wages. The positive responses in these areas far exceed those in other categories. Additionally, the chart indicates a World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 26(01), 4210-4215 4214 broad acknowledgement of industrialization's role in skill development and training, highlighted by the prominent green bar representing this factor. On the other hand, the graph also highlights significant concerns about the environmental and psychological effects of industrial growth. The responses related to anxiety and stress due to industrialization show a strong inclination towards yes, suggesting that mental health issues are prevalent among respondents. Opinions on pollution-related factors, such as increased noise and environmental degradation, are mixed; while a considerable number agree, others express uncertainty or disagreement. Moreover, the chart illustrates divided opinions on certain topics, including the impact on healthcare services, environmental health, and resource depletion, with a significant number of respondents choosing the maybe option. This uncertainty indicates that while some people see the benefits of industrialization, others are doubtful or indifferent about its overall effects. In conclusion, the chart provides a comprehensive visual representation of the analyzed data, allowing for a clear comparison of perceptions across various environmental aspects. The range of responses underscores the complex nature of the impacts of industrialization, highlighting the necessity for balanced policy measures to maximize benefits while addressing community concerns. 4. Conclusion This research explored the mixed effects of rapid industrialization on rural livelihoods in the SIDCO region of Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. While industrial growth has brought about benefits like job creation, higher wages, and better skill development, it has also introduced significant challenges, such as mental health issues, environmental degradation, and resource depletion. The findings revealed a complex and often contradictory relationship between economic progress and socio-environmental well-being, underscoring the urgent need for balanced industrial policies. The quantitative analysis shows that, despite the advantages of industrialization in terms of job opportunities and improved daily wages, it often results in job displacement and heightened anxiety and stress among the local community. While industrialization is seen as a driver for better healthcare access and the development of green jobs, there are still considerable concerns about its ability to sustain environmental health and manage natural resources effectively. The findings show that the benefits of industrialization are not distributed equally and often come with significant consequences for mental health and the environment. The varied opinions among respondents highlight the different impacts of industrialization, shaped by factors like how close individuals are to industrial activities and their access to institutional support. To tackle these disparities, policymakers need to adopt a holistic approach that prioritizes sustainability. This strategy should involve implementing strict environmental regulations, promoting eco-friendly industrial practices, and creating mental health and social welfare programs to mitigate negative effects. Targeted efforts to enhance resource management and reduce pollution are vital for addressing challenges related to environmental degradation and resource scarcity. This study emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable industrialization policies that balance economic advantages with social equity and environmental protection. 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