Aim:To compare the techniques of single layer closure and conventional layered closure of laparotomy wounds in a rural setup.  Methadology: 40 patients undergoing laparotomy were included in the study, randomly divided into 2 groups. In group–1 all the 20 patients single layer wound closure was done while in group–2 all 20 patients conventional layered closure was done. The operative time, healing time and postoperative complications were studied in each group and compared with each other. Results: Comparing both the closures, single layer closure had reduced operative time than conventional layered closure, and hence, lessens anaesthetic hazards, reduces cost of anesthetic agents and saves the surgeons time. Post operative complications such as seroma, wound infection, wound gaping, burst abdomen and incisional hernia were significantly less with single layer closure as compared to conventional layered closure