Xiaogang Village sees transformation in new era

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08:20

Xiaogang Village in east China's Anhui Province used to be known for producing beggars because of the land's low yield before it won the reputation as the birthplace of China's rural reform.

In 1978, 18 residents secretly signed a contract to divide the communally-owned farmland into individual pieces – starting the family contract responsibility system in China. The following year was the first bumper year for Xiaogang Village and ended the 20-year history of receiving food from the state. Since then, Xiaogang has seen dramatic changes.

The system derived from Xiaogang was spread nationwide by 1984 when China's per capita grain reached 400 kg. It basically solved the country's food problem. Xiaogang is considered as the symbol of China's rural revolution that has significantly transformed the rural economy.

Yan Hongchang, 69, was one of the 18 farmers who initiated the bold move in 1978. Although he is something of a national celebrity these days, he still leads a simple peasant life in the village. Now Yan is witnessing another transformation in Xiaogang.

Yan Hongchang's living room is decorated with photographs of Yan posing with some of China's high-ranking officials. /CGTN Photo

The village's reform history was its intangible assets, bringing new opportunities to develop new industries, including e-commerce and tourism. Yan's eldest son Yan Yushan runs an online shop selling not only Xiaogang specialties but also a unique product.

"We designed the statues of the 18 leaders (who worked on the contract)," said Yan Yushan. The products with characteristics of Xiaogang have attracted online costumers across China, bringing more than 100,000 yuan to Yan's family.

Another villager Yang Wei also seizes the new opportunity. Tourists from the cities come to his farm on vacation to experience rural life. "I run the program together with my parents and wife. The strawberry business holds great potential."

Tasting strawberries at Yang Wei's family farm. /CGTN Photo

In the new era, Xiaogang villagers have never stopped furthering innovation. And the spirit of innovation is basic for success.