Abstract

The process of urbanization while often synonymous with development has led to the systematic erosion of traditional livelihoods across many parts of India and the Global South. As rural areas morph into urban spaces the displacement of agrarian artisanal and community-based occupations has escalated generating economic insecurity cultural loss and social dislocation. This paper explores the multidimensional impact of urbanization on traditional livelihoods focusing on agricultural workers artisans fisherfolk and forest-based communities. Through a socio-economic lens the study examines the structural forces that contribute to this decline including land acquisition industrial expansion and policy neglect. It also evaluates the consequences for social equity food security and cultural sustainability while offering policy alternatives for balancing modernization with the preservation of diverse livelihood practices.