Analyzing the Effect of Carpet Weaving Industry in Economic Development of Rural Areas in Abu Zeid Abad

Dynamic industrialization will reduce rural migration and regional disparities and will create jobs which all lead to enhancement of local resources and agricultural prosperity. In this regard, handmade carpet industry, as the most important industry among rural handicraft industries in central areas of Iran, has been the focus of this study. Carpet weaving industry is considered a “home – village” profession. Based on limited studies available, it can be said that a vast majority of those involved in handmade carpet weaving industry live in rural areas and regard this profession as a supplement to their agricultural work. This study was carried out in Abu Zeid Abad, a district of Aran and Bidgol. The population in this survey consisted of 1791 rural families and the sample size included 200 participants. The participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire. Findings revealed that handmade carpet weaving industry had a positive effect in the economic development of rural households. However, people of the region do not accept handmade carpet weaving industry as a steady job whereas it is a lucrative job especially for housewives compared with other professions in the area. Handmade carpet weaving industry has increased the households’ income and has improved rural living standards, resulting in a development of rural areas. It has also prevented rural-urban migration.