Rural development refers to a comprehensive process aimed at improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas. It involves the systematic efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, provide infrastructure, promote education and health services, and create employment opportunities to reduce poverty and inequality in the countryside. The concept emphasizes a multidimensional approach, recognizing that rural development is not solely about increasing income, but also about social, cultural, and institutional improvements that enable people to participate actively in the development process. It seeks to empower rural communities, ensuring they have access to resources, technology, and decision-making mechanisms that can lead to sustainable growth. Prior to the 1970s, rural development in many countries, particularly in developing regions like India, was largely framed within an agricultural and infrastructure-focused policy perspective. The primary objective was to increase agricultural production and achieve food self-sufficiency, as rural areas were considered the backbone of the economy. Policies during this period were influenced by the belief that modernization and growth in agriculture would automatically lead to the overall development of rural communities. This