Present scenario on livelihood status of the fishermen in the paira river, southern Bangladesh: constraints and recommendation

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the livelihood status of the fishermen in the Paira river during the period from 17 April to 28 October, 2012. By the investigation, it was found that most of the fishermen were belonged to the age groups of 21 to 40 years (50%), represented by 54% Muslim. Medium sized family was the predominant (60%) among the fishermen, but maximum were in a joint family (84%). Over 86% of the fishermen’s primary occupation was fishing. About 38% of the fishermen were only could write name or illiterate while 46% and 14% and 2% of the fishermen were primary, secondary and higher secondary level of education, respectively. Highest income source (31%) of the fishermen were from fishing on the overall 5000 BDT/ Month. About 14% of the fishermen received health service from kobiraj, 24% from village doctors, 40% from upazila hospital and remaining 22% got health service from MBBS doctors in Health care center, PSTU. Maximum of their house were tin shed (62%), electricity facility was 82% and their main recreation purpose were radio (46%). About 26% household used kacha, 52% household used semi-pakka, only 3 (6%) household used pakka latrines and 16% had no latrines. Lack of scientific knowledge, illiteracy, and lack of government provocation were the major constraints in this area. So, the livelihood status like education, sanitation, housing condition, health condition, earning activity is possible to increase through proper management through the Government and Non- Government Organizations.