A Study on Socio-economic Status of Fishers in Khammam District of Telangana, India

Abstract

This study typically aims at analyzing the socio-economic condition of fishers in Khammam district of Telangana. The study was held in Khammam district of Telangana. In Khammam district top 5 mandals with highest fish production was selected for the study. The study lasts from April-May 2024. A multi-stage random sampling technique was selected for the study with sampling population of 120 beneficiaries. A well-structured pretested interview schedule was prepared that includes educational status, fisheries experience, type of family, type of house and sources of income etc. The socio-economic parameters were selected from previous literature. Based on response given by respondents, the data was analyzed and conclusive results were drawn. Most respondents have a high school education (48.33%) and fall within the 35-50 years age group (61.66%). The majority belong to the OBC category (85.83%) and live in nuclear families (95.00%) with pucca houses (84.16%). Fisheries is the primary occupation for 55.83% of respondents, while 44.16% have no secondary occupation. Landholding is predominantly marginal or small, with 55.83% holding no land. The main crops grown are paddy, cotton, and chili, with fisheries being the primary income source, complemented by agriculture and off-farm activities. It can be concluded that the majority of fishers are well-integrated into the fisheries sector, with limited landholdings and minimal secondary occupations. Educational attainment is concentrated at the high school level, and most participants belong to the OBC category. Income was primarily derived from fisheries, with some involvement in agriculture and off-farm activities.