Challenges and Possibilities for Sustainable Income Generation through Efficient Use of Available Resources in a Village in Odisha, India

In India, approximately 70% of the population lives in villages. Rural development is vital for the economic, social, and environmental development of a nation. This study analyzes both problems and possibilities on the generation of sustainable income by using the available resources efficiently in the village Guptapada, Odisha in eastern India. Data for analysis is collected using semi-structured interviews, observational studies, and interactive sessions with leaders of the community. Qualitative as well as quantitative results, were recorded. Field visits to cashew factory, fishing areas, tissue culture center, and mushroom farm helped us understand alternate income sources. The observations revealed the relationship between villagers, their forest environment, and the ecosystem in exercising livelihood activities. Technology that can support innovative sources of income should positively impact the rural participants without causing any environmental damage. The current paper discusses the feasibility of income generation opportunities emphasizing mushroom cultivation and technology’s role in transforming such opportunities into sustainable interventions. Technology-supported innovations for supplementing income should positively impact the rural participants without causing any environmental damage. This work could, in turn, inspire other environmentally sensitive rural areas in India to move towards sustainable development.