Constraints faced by the fisherwomen involved in post-harvest activities of marine fisheries in Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Fisherwomen play a significant yet often underappreciated role in the marine fisheries sector, especially in post-harvest activities such as fish curing, processing, and vending. This study examines the constraints faced by fisherwomen in the Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh, where a significant number of women are engaged in these activities. Through a survey of 120 fisherwomen from Nizampatnam and Repalle taluks, the study identifies key challenges in three broad categories: general, employment-related, and marketing constraints. High debt, low wages, long working hours, lack of cold storage, and exploitation by middlemen are among the primary obstacles these women face. The findings highlight the pressing need for better infrastructure, social support, and fair wages to empower fisherwomen and enhance their economic contributions to the fisheries sector.