The long-term sustainability of agriculture depends on the willingness of young people to consider farming and allied enterprises as viable livelihood options. Understanding youth attitudes towards agriculture is therefore essential for designing effective extension and policy interventions. The present study assessed the attitude of rural youth towards agriculture as an occupation in the Jait Village of Mathura district. An analytical research design was adopted and data were collected through a structured and pre-tested questionnaire. Attitude was measured using a series of statements and categorized into less favourable, favourable and more favourable attitude levels. The findings indicated that agriculture continues to be viewed positively by the majority of respondents. Nearly all respondents (96.67%) perceived agriculture as a major employment-generating sector for youth, while 90.00% believed that young people should actively engage in agricultural production. A majority (73.33%) expressed willingness to work in rural areas to pursue farming and 83.33% rejected the notion that agriculture is suitable only for illiterate individuals. Overall, 70.00% of respondents exhibited a favourable attitude towards agriculture as a livelihood option, whereas 23.00% demonstrated a less favourable attitude and only 7.00% expressed a highly favourable attitude. Despite the generally positive perception, several respondents preferred alternative occupations due to perceived economic uncertainties associated with agriculture. The findings highlight the need for strengthening entrepreneurial opportunities, improving profitability and promoting agriculture as a modern and rewarding profession to sustain youth participation in the sector.
Yadav, A., 2025. Rural youth’s perspective on agriculture as a viable livelihood option. Research Biotica 7(1), 01-04. DOI: 10.54083/ResBio/7.1.2025/01-04.
Agricultural extension, Agriculture, Attitude, Livelihood, Rural youth
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