Exploring Potential of Agri-Tourism for Sustainable Riparian Livelihood of the Brahmaputra River Valley Using SWOT Analysis: A Case Study of Lower Jia Bhoroli Basin, Naduar, Tezpur, Assam

Abstract

Agri Tourism is redefining conventional tourism by introducing the concept of agricultural in tourism among rural communities. The Jia Bhoroli River plays a significant role in its lower basin, influencing agriculture and the livelihoods of the riverine communities. However, climate-induced challenges such as frequent flooding, erosion, and channel migration disrupt agricultural practices of riparian zone, which led farmers to explore non-agricultural livelihoods for resilience. This study examines the impact of riverine dynamics on agriculture, emphasizing the region's potential as a vegetable production hub and the emerging opportunities in Agri-tourism as an alternative sustainable livelihood. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, it identifies challenges in land use and lack of proper infrastructure while highlighting the untapped potential of Agri-tourism in the Jia Bhoroli basin. The findings with SWOT analysis indicate that with targeted policy reforms and improved watershed management, this region has the potential to become a benchmark for sustainable rural development through growth in tourism, agriculture and allied activities. The study underscores the significance of blending traditional knowledge with contemporary practices like use of blockchain, R.S & G.I.S technology in agriculture, highlighting the crucial role of government support and public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable development of the watershed.