The Double-Edged Thread: Economic Gains, Social Shifts, And Well-Being in The Revival of Sericulture in Zhongyuan Village, China

Abstract

This study dealt with the multidimensional impacts of a sericulture revival program in Zhongyuan Village, known as the poverty alleviation through re-introduction and modernization of cocoon production. The study used qualitative means, majorly personal interviews with the villagers, to unearth the economic, social, and psychological effects of the development strategy. The results indicated that though sericulture had provided an alternative source of income and promises of some economic gains, which were not as forthcoming as initially perceived by the policy, socially, the program has resulted in changes in community dynamics. It has reduced the daily interaction involving household members and strengthening the traditional communal bonds, household interest in individual economic development. Pride and at the same time nostalgia for the old social fabric and loss with the new found economic oomph and independence by the individual villagers, and loss by the village community in cohesion are expressed by the villagers. The study has proven that the sericulture scheme has lessened poverty to some extent, though in the final run of it and to sustain it, more holistic assessment is needed taking into account these nuanced social and emotional costs alongside economic outcomes. Future efforts could see better results if more customized strategies wіtһ lосаl conditions were introduced, including improved training market access and digital integration.