Socio-economic Status of Fishermen: A Case Study in the Bangali River Region, Bangladesh

The fishery sector plays a dynamic role in Bangladesh's socio-economic development.The socio-economic status of fishers reflects the sector's overall impact on the community's overall scenario.This research was designed to study the socio-economic conditions of the fishermen's community near the Bangali River region in Sariakandi and Dhunat Upazila of Bogura District, Bangladesh.Data were collected from 110 fishermen through interviews, surveys, individual and group discussions (primary source) and government and nongovernment entities (secondary sources) from June 2024 to November 2024.Data revealed that most fishermen were full-time (78.18%), whereas only 21.82% were part-time.A significant number of the fishermen were young and middle-aged.Among the fishermen, 27.27, 50.91, and 21.82% had more than 20 years, 11-20 years, and 1-10 years of fishing experience, respectively.About 22.73% of the fishing community was illiterate, 22.73% knew only signs, and 33.64% belonged to the primary level.Most were extended families (70.91%), and about 54.55% typically had 3-5 family members.Only about 10% of fishermen built their houses with bricks, while the majority (51.82%) used bamboo and tin, indicating their poverty.About 90.91% had access to electricity facilities, 60% had good sanitary facilities, and only 27% sought advice from MBBS doctors at the government health complex.The fishermen's income levels were dire, with 32.73% earning below 10,000 BDT monthly.Consequently, many shifted occupations, and 44.55% engaged in subsistence work.If this trend continues, most fishermen will abandon their primary occupation and adopt other occupations.Governments and other organizations must take immediate steps to improve their socio-economic conditions and ensure a sustainable standard of living.