China’s new Long March: Why its modernization is a demanding journey

In less than eight decades, China has moved from food shortages to becoming a global trade powerhouse and a major force in technological innovation. Its leaders nevertheless call modernization a “New Long March,” involving narrower urban-rural gaps, stronger domestic technology, a greener economy and better livelihoods. After China declared extreme poverty eliminated in 2020, Duanting Village in Shanxi is seeking sustainable rural income by reviving rice farming, which it abandoned for corn in 1997. Zhao Jibin returned from a larger city and was elected village head in 2021; he believes rice can bring farmers better returns.