Livelihood status of small-scale fishermen and determinants of their income: Insights from north-eastern floodplains of Bangladesh

Abstract

The small-scale fishermen in the north-eastern floodplains are one of the most vulnerable communities of Bangladesh due to their limited income. This study assessed their livelihood status using a sustainable livelihood framework and employed a multiple regression model to evaluate factors influencing their earnings. Primary data were collected from fishermen’s households in Tanguar Haor and Hakaluki Haor through direct interviews. Results revealed that these households lacked human capital, had poor sanitation facilities and suffered from frequent diseases. Their income is very limited as they lack training on other socioeconomic activities to complement their livelihood grounded on fishing. Hence, their financial capital was very deficient and ranked lowest among other livelihood capitals. Fishermen’s major physical assets were the boats used for group and individual fishing. These small-scale fishermen had limited involvement with local administration, and around half of them were members of various NGOs. Women of these households had low participation in fishing or other income activities. The income of the fishermen was influenced by their age, fish catch per day, training and NGO membership. To increase the earnings and improve the livelihood status of small-scale fishers in the floodplain, this study suggests providing training on complementary income generating activities, improving sanitation facilities and providing additional government and non-government support.

Keywords

• Fishermen
• Livelihood assessment index
• Floodplains
• Tanguar Haor
• Hakaluki Haor
• Income