Showing 70 results for Rural Development
Zeynab Aeeni, Khabat Nesaei, , Atefeh Ahmadi Dehrashid,
Volume 13, Issue 49 (11-2024)
Abstract
Objective: In recent years, rural digital hubs have emerged as platforms capable of fostering the long-term sustainable development of villages by leveraging digital capabilities. However, in Iran, the lack of awareness about these centers has hindered their full potential from being realized.
Methods: This study aims to identify the factors and conditions influencing the adoption of digital innovation hubs in rural areas. To achieve this, a qualitative approach was employed, specifically using the grounded theory research strategy, to develop a framework for understanding the factors affecting the adoption of rural digital hubs. The study focuses on villages in Kurdistan Province. Data were collected through interviews with academic experts, government officials, and activists from non-governmental organizations, and analyzed using MAXQDA software.
Results: The findings are presented across the five dimensions of grounded theory. The study identifies:
- Causal conditions: "Economic and socio-cultural shortcomings."
- Contextual conditions: "Infrastructure, village structural characteristics, and demographic composition."
- Intervening conditions: "Lack of policy integration, inefficient rural management, and speculative economic practices."
- Strategies: "Identification of capacities, functions of digital hub centers, and pre-training initiatives."
- Outcomes: "Cultural-social development, economic development, and enhanced political acumen."
Conclusion: By identifying the conditions influencing the adoption of these digital platforms, this study provides a foundation for designing and implementing effective policies to unlock the potential of rural digital hubs.
Phd Abbas Nabati, Behroz Mohammadi Yeganeh, Mahdi Cheraghi,
Volume 13, Issue 49 (11-2024)
Abstract
Objective: Mining offers significant economic opportunities for farmers and rural residents in Iran, supplementing their primary occupations in agriculture and animal husbandry. Given the country’s specific territorial conditions, mining activities can contribute to sustainable development and influence various dimensions of rural life. This study investigates the effects of mining on sustainable rural development in Karani District.
Methods: This study is applied in purpose and descriptive-analytical in method. Data collection was conducted through library research and fieldwork. The statistical population comprised 10 rural settlements in the Karani District with active mines in their surrounding areas. A total of 250 households were selected as the sample using the Cochran formula. Sustainability was assessed across three dimensions—environmental, social, and economic—using 40 indicators evaluated via a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using the t-test and Mabak model, supported by SPSS and Excel software. ArcGIS was employed to generate maps.
Results: The study revealed that mining activities have positive and significant effects on the economic (average: 3.34) and social (average: 2.83) dimensions and also negative and significant effects on the environmental dimension (average: 3.22).
The Mabak model ranking of village sustainability showed top-ranked villages: Aghbolagh Taghamin (0.940), Ochgonbad Khan (0.715), and Bastandereh (0.568), and lowest-ranked village: Shahrak (-0.869).
Conclusions: Mining activities in the Karani District have led to a stable economic status, semi-sustainable social development, and unstable environmental conditions in rural areas. The sustainability ranking further indicates that, beyond proximity to mines, several factors influence village sustainability, including:
- Social awareness and the demand-driven spirit among residents.
- The performance and socio-political relations of local village managers, especially the village council and village head.
The findings highlight the dual-edged impact of mining, underscoring the need for strategies to balance economic benefits with environmental sustainability.
Mohamad Zaheri, Hossein Karimzadeh, Nabiollah Hosseini Shahpariyan,
Volume 13, Issue 50 (12-2024)
Abstract
Objective: Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in job creation, wealth generation, and economic growth, serving as a key driver of community development. However, the emergence of rural entrepreneurship requires the establishment of a supportive ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurial activities. This study aims to identify the factors affecting rural entrepreneurship development through a meta-analysis approach, utilizing CMA3 software.
Method: This study analyzed all relevant research articles published in Iranian academic journals over the past 12 years. Using keyword-based searches in credible scientific databases, 13 research articles and 2 university dissertations met the inclusion criteria. The final meta-analysis incorporated 11 key factors and 343 variables.
Findings: The results indicate that out of all identified variables:
- 175 variables were repeated at least 50 times in different studies.
- 8 variables (16%) had a low effect size (<0.3).
- 37 variables (74%) had a moderate effect size (0.3–0.5).
- 5 variables (10%) had a high effect size (>0.5).
Among the 11 main influencing factors, 7 factors were the most frequently cited:
- Individual Factors (Competitiveness, enthusiasm, and ambiguity tolerance);
- Economic Factors (Production & marketing, access to financial support);
- Social Factors (Place attachment, NGOs, economic security);
- Environmental Factors (Access to land & water, suitable natural conditions);
- Infrastructure Factors (Physical infrastructure, business environment, market access);
- Educational Factors (Entrepreneurial training);
- Institutional Factors (Institution-building, media coverage, entrepreneurship laws).
Conclusions: The meta-analysis approach highlights that rural entrepreneurship is shaped by multiple interrelated factors. This study integrates findings from diverse research to prioritize key influencing factors based on effect size, leading to the development of a comprehensive rural entrepreneurship model.
Mohammad Hossein Zarei Abyaneh, Mohammad Salmani, Mojtaba Ghadiri Masoum, Alireza Darban Astane, Zahra Torkashvand,
Volume 14, Issue 51 (6-2025)
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this research is to spatially analyze the economic impacts of reverse migration in rural areas, focusing on Natanz County.
Methods: This study employed a survey-based research method. A sample of 381 individuals was selected from 24 villages in Natanz County using stratified sampling and Cochran’s formula. Data were collected through literature reviews, field observations, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires. For data analysis, one-sample T-tests and Kriging interpolation in ArcGIS software were used.
Results: In terms of investment, the southern half of Natanz County—especially the villages of Ooreh and Goodarzan—showed higher levels of investment, with a mean score of 3.75. For infrastructure development, the central and southern areas had the highest levels, with mean scores of 4.8 and 4.0 respectively. Regarding demand for services, the highest scores were observed in both the northern and parts of the southern villages (mean score: 4), while the eastern and western regions showed the lowest levels of development in this regard (mean score: 2.47). In terms of income generation, the southern villages had a higher average score (3.5) than their northern counterparts.
Conclusions: Given the attractiveness of certain villages in Natanz County—especially those with advantages such as proximity and easy access to urban centers, closeness to tourism hubs, suitable elevation, and moderate climate—a substantial wave of migration to these areas seems likely in the future.
Sajad Amiri, Seyed Amirhossein Garakani, Hossein Zinati Fakhrabad, Ali Akbar Sarmadi Syfi,
Volume 14, Issue 54 (2-2026)
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to identify the prerequisites and components related to technological entrepreneurship in the rural areas of the Khaf territorial system. Given the concentration of technological development in urban areas and the deprivation of rural communities from its benefits, this research investigates strategies for promoting technological entrepreneurship as a tool for reducing migration, strengthening the local economy, and improving the quality of life in rural regions.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using the grounded theory approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 experts active in the field of rural entrepreneurship. The data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding processes.
Results: The results revealed that the factors influencing technological entrepreneurship fall into three categories: (1) individual factors such as motivation, risk tolerance, and technological skills; (2) environmental factors, including access to digital infrastructure, governmental support, and a culture receptive to technology; and (3) structural factors such as supportive policies and inter-institutional cooperation. Major challenges identified include mono-product economies, lack of specialized training, absence of communication infrastructure, and gender inequality. Proposed strategies include identifying local capacities, developing infrastructure, targeted training, and strengthening community participation.
Conclusions: Technological entrepreneurship can contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas by generating new employment opportunities, enhancing productivity, and preserving cultural identity. Developing a coherent framework that emphasizes local conditions and coordination between governmental and private institutions is essential for the success of this approach. The findings of this study provide practical insights for rural development policymakers and planners to design and implement more effective programs based on the key identified factors.
Azam Bigdeli, Jamshid Einali, Maryam Mohammadlo,
Volume 14, Issue 54 (2-2026)
Abstract
Objective: The present study aims to investigate the role of social entrepreneurship based on self-help groups in the economic empowerment of rural women in Topqareh rural district in Khodabandeh County (Zanjan province).
Methods: The present study is of an applied type, and its method is descriptive-analytical. The statistical population of the study is 645 women working in a clothing production workshop, of which 240 were selected as a sample using the Cochran formula. Due to the high participation of the individuals, 271 questionnaires were completed and used as the basis for analysis. A field method based on completing a questionnaire was used to collect data. The collected data were analyzed using one-sample t-tests, Wilcoxon, and Kruskal-Wallis tests.
Results: The results of the one-sample t-test showed that social entrepreneurship has a positive effect on all indicators of rural women's empowerment, and the indicators of participation in household decision-making and promotion of women's personal and social security both had the greatest impact on rural women's empowerment, with a numerical mean of (4.11). Also, the results of the Wilcoxon test showed that there was a significant difference in all research indicators at the 99% level, and the greatest changes were observed in the indicators of socio-economic self-reliance (-11.511) and social freedom and mobility (-11.508).
Conclusions: Social entrepreneurship based on rural women's self-help groups has helped improve the economic indicators of rural women's empowerment.
Seyed Hadi Tayebnia, Ali Izadi ,
Volume 15, Issue 55 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Rural areas in many developing countries are increasingly confronted with economic, social, and environmental challenges that contribute to social exclusion, poverty, and population decline. In this context, the concept of creative settlements has emerged as an innovative approach for revitalizing rural communities and promoting sustainable development. The present study aimed to identify an appropriate model for the formation of creative rural settlements in Rashtkhwar County, located in Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran.
Methods: This research employed a descriptive–analytical methodology. Relevant indicators were identified through documentary studies and preliminary field investigations. Data were collected using field observation forms, expert questionnaires, and household surveys. The collected data were analyzed using Fuzzy DEMATEL and SPSS software. The findings revealed that participation was the most influential component in the formation of creative rural settlements, with a mean score of 4.05. Furthermore, 70.3% of surveyed households reported an increase in the process of creative settlement formation during the last decade, whereas 21.2% perceived a decline.
Results: The results indicate that rural participation, social cohesion, occupational diversification, local leadership capacity, and the promotion of creative ideas significantly contribute to the emergence and development of creative settlements.
Conclusions: The study concludes that the participatory model represents the most effective framework for fostering creative rural settlements in Rashtkhwar County. Strengthening participatory mechanisms can enhance other dimensions of creativity and innovation, thereby accelerating rural development and improving the resilience and sustainability of rural communities.
Masoumeh Rahdar, Sadegh Asghari Lafmejani, Mahmoud Reza Mirlotfi, Mohammad Pirani,
Volume 15, Issue 55 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objective: As one of the principal social support institutions in Iran, the Imam Khomeini Relief Committee (IKRC) is mandated to facilitate the transition of poor and deprived households out of poverty through an empowerment-oriented approach. This study critically evaluates and diagnoses the effectiveness of the Committee’s empowerment initiatives targeting rural households in Hamun County, located in the Sistan region of southeastern Iran.
Methods: The study adopted a descriptive–analytical research design based on both documentary and field data. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered at two levels: beneficiary households and local experts. The statistical population consisted of household heads covered by the IKRC in rural areas of Hamun County. Using Cochran’s formula, a sample of 369 households was selected. Data analysis was conducted using the Additive Ratio Assessment (ARAS) multi-criteria decision-making technique, supported by SPSS and ArcGIS software.
Results: The results indicate that among the economic indicators, self-sufficiency and employment loans demonstrated the lowest effectiveness in promoting economic empowerment. In contrast, indicators such as psychological well-being and life satisfaction achieved the highest scores within the socio-cultural dimension. Friedman test results revealed statistically significant differences among the dimensions of empowerment, with the socio-cultural dimension exhibiting the highest level of effectiveness and the economic dimension the lowest.
Conclusions: Weak monitoring mechanisms and the inefficiency of human resources in achieving program objectives were identified as the principal factors limiting the effectiveness of the Committee’s empowerment initiatives. The findings highlight the need for revising implementation policies, providing specialized staff training, and strengthening process-oriented monitoring systems to enhance the effectiveness of rural empowerment programs.
Sajedeh Karimi Kondozi,
Volume 15, Issue 55 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology with significant potential to enhance rural development through improving productivity, decision-making processes, and access to information. This study aimed to investigate the role of AI in empowering rural communities, considering the mediating effect of managerial support in the rural areas of Natanz County, Iran.
Methods: The research adopted an applied, descriptive-survey design. The statistical population consisted of all rural residents of Natanz County, from which 371 respondents were selected using Cochran’s sampling formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising three dimensions: artificial intelligence (5 items), rural empowerment (19 items), and managerial support (6 items). The validity of the instrument was confirmed through face, content, and construct validity, while reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.86). Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in SmartPLS software.
Results: The findings revealed that AI had a significant positive effect on rural empowerment (β = 0.636, T = 12.002) and managerial support (β = 0.392, T = 3.875). Furthermore, managerial support significantly influenced rural empowerment (β = 0.332, T = 5.533). Sobel test results confirmed the mediating role of managerial support in the relationship between AI and rural empowerment (T = 7.678). The results indicate that AI can substantially contribute to rural empowerment by enhancing agricultural productivity, improving access to education and healthcare services, facilitating market connectivity, and supporting informed decision-making. Effective managerial support and appropriate infrastructure are essential for maximizing the developmental benefits of AI in rural communities.
Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of integrating AI technologies into rural development strategies to foster sustainable socio-economic transformation and reduce rural–urban disparities.
Dr Fatemeh Ghorbani Piralidehi, Dr Somayeh Shirzadi Laskookalayeh, Mrs Fatemeh Farhadi,
Volume 15, Issue 56 (9-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Farming of native poultry at the village level will provide entrepreneurship and employment for rural women, provide needed protein, improve rural income and sustainable rural development. Despite the benefits of native poultry, the acceptance of this rural activity has not received much attention. Therefore, identifying the factors affecting of native poultry farming among villagers in Mazandaran province can provide grounds for improving the villagers' willingness to carry out this native activity.
Methods: The present study is quantitative and descriptive-survey. The statistical population is the total number of native poultry farmers in Mazandaran province, 64725 people. Multi-stage sampling method was used to select the sample. 382 native poultry farmers were randomly selected as samples. The required data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by asking experts and the reliability was confirmed by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
Results: Personal-professional factors and social-environmental factors explain 73% of the changes in perceived usefulness and 36% of the changes in perceived ease of use. Perceived usefulness, attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control explain a total of 74% of the changes in behavioral intention, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention explain about 64% of the changes in native poultry farming behavior.
Conclusions: The main essence of the proposed model is behavioral intention over behavior, but perceived behavioral control is also an important variable that, along with behavioral intention, affects native poultry farming even more intensely. Increasing the risk-taking power of producers, improving the knowledge and skills of producers, raising public awareness for the consumption of native poultry, expanding the cooperative of native poultry producers, and providing low-interest and targeted bank loans are among the suggestions for the development of native poultry farming in Mazandaran province.
