dynamic analysis on socio-economic impact of Roojeentak food processing plant in Kermanshah Township with the aid of Vensim software

Agricultural food processing plants in rural areas is an effective strategy in rural development. Although these plants are established to bring positive changes in rural life, their long term impacts should not be overlooked. Considering the complexity of socio-economic impact of rural development interventions, a dynamic analysis is needed to measure the socio-economic impacts of rural development projects. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was to conduct a dynamic analysis on socio-economic impact of Roojeentak food processing plant in Kermanshah Township. The population included farmers over 30 years of before the factory was established. Using purposeful sampling through snowball technique, 120 farmers from nearby villages were selected. Data was collected using individual interview and focus group discussions. Data was analyzed using a dynamic system analysis with the aid of Vensim software. Results revealed that Rojeentak food processing plant have a direct effect on the following parameters:1) increased tomato production, 2) agricultural and non-agricultural business development, 3) employment opportunities, 4) reduced food transportation cost, 5) changes in crop pattern. Moreover, higher income and improved economic status are the impacts of food processing plant. Employment opportunities have influenced reverse migration in the area. One other major change is related to higher traffic which is the result of increased population. This in turn has created sound pollution and accidents. Rural development practitioners in Kermanshah province can use the result of this study as a risk assessment strategy in future agricultural industry in the region.