Exploring the Impact of Rural Home-Based Economy and their Contribution to Rural Lives: Insight from the Rural Areas of District Rawalpindi

Abstract

This research study explores the impact of the home-based economy on rural lives, drawing insights from the rural areas of District Rawalpindi. The main purpose of this research study was to find key motivations behind the home-based economy and examine how these motivations relate to the type of business, and to understand how these home-based economies can improve rural lives. Contribution to rural lives can be measured through two indicators: employment opportunities and income generation. A semi-structured field survey of 385 home-based economy owners was conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to identify patterns in data, and the regression analysis technique was used to explore the effect of different factors on income and employment. The results indicate that service-oriented economies can contribute more significantly, followed by agriculture and handicrafts. Financial need and lack of other opportunities are the most common reasons behind the home-based economy. Overall, results confirmed that rural home-based economies play a vital role in supporting rural lives. This study suggested that policymakers develop a policy to support the rural home-based economy, especially for service-oriented economies. Furthermore, the government should make it easier for these economies by simplifying rules and providing access to resources.