International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Iranna Biradar, Kashibai S Khyadagi, Santosh Mavinalli, Sarojaji J. Karakannavar and Ramya HG

abstract
The study highlights significant socio-economic differences between rural and urban households, influencing education, occupation, income and consumption patterns. In education, rural areas had a higher illiteracy rate (18.00%) compared to urban areas (6.00%), where 18.00% of respondents attained graduate-level education. Age distribution varied, with 53.33% of urban respondents under 30 years, while rural areas had a higher proportion of middle-aged individuals (50.00%). Family structure differences were evident, as 80.00% of rural households followed the joint family system, whereas 73.33% of urban households lived in nuclear families. Occupational disparities showed that 59.33% of rural respondents engaged in agricultural labour, while 48.67% of urban respondents held jobs. Income levels also varied significantly, with 46.67% of urban households earning Rs. 50,001-1,00,000 annually, whereas 46.00% of rural households earned Rs. 5,000-25,000. The study also analysed acid lime utilization patterns, revealing differences in maturity stage preferences and forms of use. Most rural (76.67%) and urban (73.34%) respondents preferred light green limes due to their extended shelf life. However, urban households exhibited a greater preference for yellow-stage fruits (19.33%) compared to rural households (8%). Juice preparation was the most common form of consumption, with 90% of rural households and 46.67% of urban households using acid lime for this purpose. Urban households showed a slightly higher inclination toward processed lime products (2.67%). These findings underscore the socio-economic and consumption variations between rural and urban populations, shaped by accessibility, cultural habits and economic factors.