Fish Cultivation as a Livelihood Option for Small Scale Farmers - Study in Southwestern Region of Bangladesh

Abstract

Present study explores the importance of fish farming in the livelihood of small scale fish farmers of Batiaghata upazila in the Southwestern region of Bangladesh. This is an exploratory type study, which selects three villages of Batiaghata upazila. It collects primary data from 30 fish cultivators through questionnaire survey and key informant interview method. The study findings show that fish cultivation is the main occupation for 56.67 percent of the farmers. It has an important implication for ensuring emergency cash flow in terms of urgent medical expenses, financing children’s education and supporting household economy in times of maintaining social and family occasions. It also alters households’ protein consumption level and income, expenditure and savings pattern of the households. Recognizing the importance of small scale fish farming in the region, present study suggest government and non government organizations ensuring efficient marketing, expanding training program and ensuring supply of quality fish fry and fingerlings.