Assessing the Long-Term Impact of Agricultural Policy Reforms on Smallholder Farmers’ Productivity and Welfare

• Author(s): Olamidotun Nurudeen Michael; Omodolapo Eunice Ogunsola
• Paper ID: 1711398
• Page: 309-321
• Published Date: 30-04-2018
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 1 Issue 10 April-2018

Abstract

Agricultural policy reforms have been pivotal in shaping the productivity, income stability, and overall welfare of smallholder farmers across developing and emerging economies. This review critically examines the long-term implications of these reforms, focusing on productivity growth, input accessibility, market integration, and social welfare outcomes. By synthesizing empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives, the study evaluates how liberalization, subsidy restructuring, and institutional reforms have influenced smallholder resilience, sustainability, and livelihood diversification. The paper explores the interplay between policy instruments such as credit access, land tenure systems, and extension services in enhancing production efficiency and income equity. It further identifies gaps in implementation, including uneven resource distribution, policy inconsistency, and weak governance mechanisms that hinder inclusive agricultural growth. The review employs a multidisciplinary lens integrating agricultural economics, development studies, and rural sociology to assess the reform outcomes over time. Findings highlight that while reforms have improved productivity in certain contexts, disparities persist in adoption rates, gender inclusion, and access to modern inputs. The paper concludes with recommendations for adaptive and participatory policy frameworks that align national agricultural reforms with sustainable rural development goals and global food security strategies.

Keywords

Agricultural Policy Reforms, Smallholder Farmers, Productivity, Welfare, Rural Development, Sustainable Agriculture.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Olamidotun Nurudeen Michael, Omodolapo Eunice Ogunsola "Assessing the Long-Term Impact of Agricultural Policy Reforms on Smallholder Farmers’ Productivity and Welfare" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 1 Issue 10 2018 Page 309-321

IEEE:
Olamidotun Nurudeen Michael, Omodolapo Eunice Ogunsola "Assessing the Long-Term Impact of Agricultural Policy Reforms on Smallholder Farmers’ Productivity and Welfare" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 1(10)