Contents Acknowledgements vii List of Tables xi List of Plates xiii List of Photo Plates xv 1. Introduction 1 2. Regional Setting 16 Geographical Appearances Geology Physiography Elevation Drainage System Soil Climate Rainfall Temperature Natural Vegetation 3. Process of Urbanisation 38 Urbanisation as a Socio-cultural Process Urbanisation as a Geographical Process Macro Urbanisation Urbanisation as an Economic Process Primary Production and Urbanisation Transformation ofLanduse Occupational Structure 4. Status of Sample Villages 73 Location and Accessibility Household and Population Income House Types Electrification Transport Facilities Landuse Pattern Changing Production of Crops Animal Husbandry Educational Facilities Agricultural Implements Electrical Appliances Services Rural Artisan and Service Units 5. Transformation of Socio-economic Environment 129 Population Education Family Type House Type Income Landholdings Occupational Structure 6. Transformation of Agricultural Environment 179 Landuse Pattern Cropping Pattern Irrigational Facilities Modern Agricultural Implements Use of Modern Inputs Land Pollution and Degradation Dairy and Poultry 7.Transformation of Infrastructural Facilities 227 Transport Impact of Transport Medical Facilities Communication Drinking Water Facilities Power and Energy Banking Education 8. Transformation of Living Environment 251 House Ownership Drinking Water Facilities Toilet Facilities Fuel Used Use of Electricity Transport Facilities Commercial Attitude 9. Conclusion 282 Bibliography 308 Index 329