Socio-Economic status of fish farmers in Dhumki Upazila under Patuakhali District, Bangladesh

Abstract

In order to determine the socio-economic aspects of fish farmers in Dumki Upazila under Patuakhali district, a questionnaire survey was conducted in different villages of the Upazila. Data was collected from 40 farm owners for a period of six months from February to July, 2015. The present study indicated that majority of fish farmers (77.5%) were 26-45 years old. On the other hand, 17.5% respondents were less than 25 years old and 5% respondents were 18-15 years old. It was found that majority of the farmers (65%) gained their experience from relatives, 2% from friends and neighbors, 10% by self-education, 5% from DoF and 6% from NGO’s. According to the study, about 60% farmers were involved in agriculture, 12.5% farmers involved for vegetable growing, 12.5% farmers involved in poultry rearing and 5% farmers involved in livestock farming. About 80% farmers were identified as medium producers (3000-4000) kg/ha./yr, 15% as low producers (2000-3000) and only 5% farmer identified as high producers. In respect of annual income of the fish farmers in the study area was found to have 82% moderate income (Tk. 100000-400000 Tk.), 15% low income (Tk.1000-100000) and 2.5% high income (above Tk.400000). It was observed that the livelihood status of the fish farmers in Dhumki Upazila was not satisfactory but people were very keen to produce fish and production was satisfactory in this area.