Tiger Prawn Seed Collection in the Indian Sundarbans: Environmental, Livelihood, and Occupational Implications

Abstract

The Sundarbans recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot, support the livelihoods of approximately 95% of the local population through activities such as agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries. The present study investigated the socio-economic conditions, environmental implications and occupational hazards faced by tiger prawn seed collectors in the Basanti and Hingalganj blocks of the Sundarbans. Blocks were purposively selected as notable tiger prawn seed collectors found in this region. A simple random sampling method was used to survey 60 monodon seed collectors from four villages with semi-structured interviews conducted to gather data on their socio-economic status and occupational risks. The data analysis incorporated mixed method approach, employing descriptive statistics, and thematic analysis. The study utilized the (SPE) Risk Assessment Model to evaluate the risks associated with physical, ergonomic, biological, and psychological hazards. Study reveals that Income from tiger prawn seed collection exhibits significant seasonal variation. Maximum income is recorded from April to July with monthly income of ?11,400. Study on occupational hazards indicate that physical hazards pose the highest risk (0.68), followed by ergonomic (0.65), psychological (0.46), and biological hazards (0.35). These risks highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures and alternative livelihood opportunities. The research underscores the necessity of balancing economic sustenance with ecological conservation, suggesting future interventions that include protective gear, ergonomic tools, and government support to ensure the well-being of the collectors and the sustainability of the Sundarbans ecosystem.