Employment and the Survival of Rural People During The Sixth Plan

Abstract

The objective of this study is to provide quantitative projection of employment potential in the agricultural sector in the Sixth Plan (1987 - 1991) by using linear programming techmique. The model is used as the basis for providing alternative of the future supply based on assumptions of combinations of changing availability of inputs. These projections are related to possible future of demand for output and future of labor utilization in rural Thailand. The models assume that paddy land other land areas are reaching some constraints. The further expansion of land can be done through further expansion of capital and land “augmented” technology but only in a limited amount. The results of the models indicate that almost all types of lands close to being fully utilized during both wet and dry season. Labor in agriculture is highly seasonal in nature. The level of the unused labor is higher at the end than at the beginning of the Sixth Plan. The rnages of unused labor during the Sixth Plan are between 4.1 million to 4.4 million. These unused labors have to be absorbed elsewhere e.g., in non - agricultural activities such as smallscale industries or off - farm works. Otherwise the problem of unemployment in rural sector may be significant.