Article Abstract index4

Education plays an important role in improving livelihood opportunities and promoting social development, particularly in rural and resource-dependent communities. The present study examines the impact of education on the livelihood strategies and cultural practices of the fishing community in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal, India. The research was conducted in selected villages of three Community Development Blocks-Gosaba, Kakdwip, and Namkhana. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 105 fishing households comprising 538 respondents. Both primary and secondary data were collected through structured questionnaires, personal interviews, field observations, and relevant published sources. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods such as frequency distribution and percentage analysis. The findings reveal that fishing remains the primary occupation for most households, although some families have adopted diversified livelihood activities such as agriculture, small business, and wage labour. The study also indicates that the level of education among the fishing community is generally low, which limits opportunities for occupational mobility and income diversification. However, respondents with higher educational attainment tend to adopt alternative livelihood strategies and demonstrate greater awareness regarding health, environmental conservation, and social participation. The results highlight that education significantly influences both livelihood improvement and cultural transformation within the community. The study concludes that strengthening educational access, promoting skill development, and supporting sustainable livelihood initiatives are essential for improving the socio-economic conditions of fishing communities in the Sundarbans region.
Keywords: Education, Livelihood Strategies, Fishing Community, Cultural Practices, Socio-economic Development, Sundarbans