Exploring Impact of Fish Farming in Changing Livelihood Status of Fishermen in Bangladesh

Abstract

The current study was piloted in Muktagachha sub-district, Mymensingh District, Bangladesh to explore the impact of fish farming in changing livelihood status of the fishermen. Data was collected from 100 fishermen (10% of total population) by using a well-structured interview schedule. Sixteen of socio-economic characteristics of fishermen were selected as livelihood status features. Correlation coefficient (r) was employed to analyze the collected data. The findings exposed that majority of the respondents (58.3%) moderately altered their livelihood status as a result of fish farming, while 31.7% touched higher level and just 10% lowered their livelihood status. Out of sixteen livelihood status aspects, four (level of education, farm size, knowledge on fish farming, and annual income) were positively and significantly correlated with their livelihood status changes through fish farming. The study provides approvals for the planners to address the above-mentioned influential issues of the fishermen to improve their livelihood status in the study area. Moreover, non-formal educational programmes, proper training to enhance knowledge and skill on fish farming, appropriate extension services etc. could play an important role in increasing the livelihood status of the fishermen.