What was the primary focus of village studies in India during the 1950s and 1960s?

The correct answer is - Social and cultural life of rural communities

Key Points

• Social and cultural life of rural communities
  • Village studies in India during the 1950s and 1960s primarily focused on understanding the social and cultural life of rural communities.
  • Researchers aimed to document the traditional social structures, customs, and norms that characterized village life.
  • This period saw extensive fieldwork, with anthropologists and sociologists immersing themselves in village life to gain a comprehensive understanding of rural India.
  • Such studies helped in creating a detailed record of the caste system, kinship patterns, and rituals prevalent in Indian villages.

Additional Information

• Historical Context
  • The 1950s and 1960s were crucial decades post-India's independence, where understanding rural life was pivotal for national planning and development.
  • These studies were often supported by government initiatives aiming to formulate policies for rural development.
• Notable Researchers
  • Prominent sociologists and anthropologists like M.N. Srinivas, who studied the village of Rampura, were significant contributors.
  • Other notable works include studies by F.G. Bailey and S.C. Dube.
• Impact on Policy
  • The insights gained from these studies influenced various rural development programs and strategies, including the Community Development Program and the Panchayati Raj system.
  • These programs aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the rural populace based on the findings of these studies.