Investigation of Major Challenges of Rural Development in Iran Utilizing Delphi Technique

Authors
R. Namdar
H. Sadighi
Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, College of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to investigate the factors causing the rural underdevelopment in Iran. To fulfill this objective, Delphi technique, as a method of refining group opinions and substituting computed consensus for an agreed-upon majority opinion, was used. The study used a series of three steps questionnaires. Findings indicated that lack of a coherent strategy for sustainable rural development, unavailability of appropriate infrastructures in rural regions, lack of coordinated programs in rural development, weak management of governmental structures and lack of diversification in non-agricultural activities such as tourism are the most important challenges which can create an inappropriate condition for the development of Iranian rural communities.

Keywords

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Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology
Volume 15, Issue 3
May and June 2013
Pages 445-455