Gender participation and socio-economic evaluation of on-farm and cottage fish feed industries in Mymensingh district

Abstract

On-farm and cottage fish feed industries of three upazilas- Mymensingh Sadar, Trishal and Muktagacha in Mymensingh district were investigated to understand gender participation ratio, and to evaluate their socio-economic status and working environment. A total of 150 respondents were randomly interviewed where 60% of feed mill owners and workers were middle aged group. Relatively high average wage (9000-10,000 tk/month) found in Mymensingh sadar. However, others factors such as family size, income, socio-economic status etc. found similar among three studied areas. Among the surveyed fish feed industries, 53.33% industries produced feed for their own fish farm and 10% produced feed commercially. Locally available ingredients were used to prepare feed without scientific knowledge. Hundred percent workers claimed unhealthy working environment. A lower number of women participation observed in fish feed industries of studied areas. Therefore, government and non-govt. interference is necessary to encourage and motivate more women participation in aquaculture industries for sustainable economic development.