Explain Mal-Integration of Rural and Urban Economy.

Mal-integration of rural and urban economies refers to the unequal and imbalanced relationship between rural and urban areas within a country's economic structure. This phenomenon occurs when rural areas are marginalized, underdeveloped, and dependent on urban centers for resources, markets, and economic opportunities, leading to disparities in income, employment, and access to services between rural and urban populations.

In a mal-integrated economy, rural areas typically face challenges such as limited infrastructure, inadequate healthcare and education facilities, lack of employment opportunities, and low agricultural productivity. As a result, rural residents may be forced to migrate to urban areas in search of better livelihoods, exacerbating urbanization and population pressures in cities.

Conversely, urban areas benefit from the concentration of economic activities, investment, infrastructure development, and access to markets, skilled labor, and services. However, this concentration can lead to overcrowding, environmental degradation, social inequalities, and strain on urban infrastructure and resources.

Addressing mal-integration requires comprehensive policies and interventions that promote balanced regional development, invest in rural infrastructure, support rural livelihoods, and strengthen linkages between rural and urban economies. By bridging the gap between rural and urban areas, countries can promote inclusive growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the overall well-being of their populations.