Nypa juice collection as an alternative income-generating activity: Does it make any difference between collectors and non-collectors among coastal communities of Bangladesh?

Abstract

This study aimed to explore whether Nypa juice collection as an alternative income-generating activity (AIGA) influenced the life and livelihood of the coastal communities of Bangladesh. Following a cross-sectional survey method, this study was conducted in four unions of Kalapara and Taltoli Upazila (sub-district) of Patuakhali and Barguna districts, where data were collected using a multistage stratified random sampling from 208 participants, including both Nypa juice collectors and no-collectors by administering a semi-structured interview schedule (SSIS). Findings indicated that Nypa juice collectors were older (p = 0.032) and mostly Hindu (p < 0.001) compared to their non-collector counterparts. Although a significant percentage of the Nypa juice collectors were primarily involved in farming or agricultural activities (p < 0.001), yet they earned a substantial amount of money from Nypa juice and molasses (p < 0.019) and spent much higher (p < 0.037) during a season. Regarding household loans, it is apparent that around 20% of the households had loans, while Nypa juice collectors were less likely to borrow money (p < 0.001), and the amount of the loan was much lower than that of the non-collectors (p < 0.001). Besides, Nypa juice collectors were more aware of the frequency of natural disasters (p = 0.039), and they took more protective measures during disasters (p < 0.001) than the non-collectors. Additionally, Nypa juice collectors exhibited better capacity to deal with natural disasters (p = 0.016). Although there was no significant difference observed regarding social wellbeing, it is evident that Nypa juice collectors enjoyed better food diversity (p < 0.001) than their non-collector contemporaries. There is, however, no denying the fact that despite some positive changes brought about by the Nypa juice collection, more institutional support, both financial and infrastructural, is required for further development in the life and livelihood of the coastal communities to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) assuring less poverty with equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.

Keywords

• Nypa juice
• Alternative income generating activity
• Livelihood
• Coastal people
• Bangladesh