This note analyses socio-economic changes among peasants and rural workers in Harevli and Mahatwar based on surveys conducted in 2006 and 2023. It examines shifts in family and hired labour use, sources of income, and patterns of proletarianisation. Findings show a marked decline in family labour and growing dependence on non-agricultural income. Despite this, peasant households continue to contribute over 70 per cent of village agricultural output, underscoring their enduring significance. The study also notes increasing landlessness and diversification of livelihoods through migration and leasing, highlighting persistent inequality and the evolving character of rural class relations.
