Socio-cultural Processes and Livelihood Patterns at Tirurangadi - CDS

the ‘modern’ cult of Gold, which is a demonstration of how the productive sector is
undermined by market-friendly strategies.
The same story can be continued for the less remunerative professions also.
We have already seen how several agro-based professions such as basket-making and mat
making have declined. It should be pointed out that there have been no attempts to
transform the technical skills involved in such professions to make their products more
viable. For example, potters can do earthen pots to be used in nurseries, and pots can be
made, that can be used as water coolers. Earthen vessels can be similarly made to
perform a preservative function, but unfortunately, none of these possibilities are
explored in the age of the refrigerator and the water cooler. The region is abundant in
clayey soil, and the manufacture of various ceramic products is another area that can be
thought of. Some of these minor professions are already attempted to be regenerated
through the Self Help groups under Kutumbasree. However, the problem is that of a
viable distribution network that would withstand the market forces which have penetrated
even to such areas, there is no serious move to develop such a network at present. This
means that self-help groups are simply seen as another form of poverty alleviation
programme, which includes moderately remunerative productive activities. What seems
to be necessary is to develop a rural technology plan aimed at environmentally
sustainable development, to protect and further develop the available technologies and
skills.
Population
This brings us to the important question of the human beings in the area. Tirurangadi is a
densely populated region, with a rapidly growing population. Till recently the
predominant number of people was engaged in agriculture and agro-based professions,
followed by trade and services. Now there are substantially large number of persons