D. Heisnam1 and P. Bhattacharya
Abstract
This study examines the physical capital in rural livelihoods around Loktak Lake, Manipur, India, focusing on infrastructure and producer goods such as, housing, land, tools, water, and energy that sustain livelihoods. The objectives are to evaluate household asset holdings, analyze their distribution across the Northern, Central, and Southern zones of Loktak Lake, and assess their contribution to livelihood security. A household survey across nine villages around Loktak Lake revealed that physical assets, such as tools, livestock, and agricultural and irrigation appliances, are limited, with a median household asset value under 50,000, highlighting income constraints and the role of inadequate physical capital in limiting livelihood security. The study emphasizes land as a crucial asset for diversifying livelihood basket, with communities heavily reliant on the lakeâs resources. Despite some improvements such as rural electrification reaching approximately 65% of households, basic needs such as safe water, sanitation, and durable housing remain unmet. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions, which are aligning with various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), to strengthen physical capital, including government schemes such as rural housing, water supply projects, and asset-building programs. These interventions are crucial for enhancing livelihood resilience and facilitating informed sustainable lake management.