A Descriptive study on the Livelihood Status of Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha) Fishermen of Greater Noakhali Regions of Bangladesh

The present study aimed to elucidate the livelihood status of Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha) fishermen at
Lakshmipur and Noahkali Districts in Bangladesh during August, 2014 to January, 2015 through
questionnaire survey method. During Hilsa fishing, Pangas (Pangasius pangasius), Koral (Lates
calcarifer) and Poa (Johnius coitor) were also found to capture as by catch using Chandi jal (set gill
net). 85% fishermen were observed to use mechanized (5-40 HP; Horse Power) boats in the study
areas. Hilsa fishing was noticed mostly during October-November while such activities was almost
absent during February-May (off period) which made fishermen to start migrating temporarily to the
nearest urban areas for their livelihood. Average daily net income of the fishermen during fishing
period was 600 BDT whereas their real field daily income through fishing supposed to be 1695 BDT if
they are supported by nets, boats, fuels etc., which means almost 64% of their daily income is taken
by the aratdars. The socio-economic condition of the fishermen in the adjacent area was not
satisfactory. Therefore, subsidy as a means of nets, boats, fuels, engines etc., might be
recommended for the better livelihood of the fishermen in greater Noakhali region.