Vol. 12, Special Issue 8 (2023)

Author(s):
Sunil K Shekh, Smit R Lende, Chirag M Bhadesiya, Hardik R Patel, Dignati C Tandel and Mehul N Patel

Abstract:
Women played a critical role in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, particularly in subsistence and small-scale production systems. In India especially in the coastal villages and dam around the key role in the domestic marketing of fish. Aquaculture and fisheries are important economic activities for coastal and riverine communities in many parts of the world. Women have an important role in the fish value chain, supplying labor and functioning as small-scale entrepreneurs in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The present study is conducted to study the women's participation in fisheries and aquaculture in the Tapi district and study the socio-economic aspect of women involved in aquaculture and fisheries in the Tapi district. The standard questionnaire was prepared and related to the collected data in various aspects including income categories, household size, education, marital status, membership details, training attendance, contact with relevant institutions and age groups. A total of 122 respondents were surveyed in the present investigation. During this survey, most respondents were in the age group of 25-35 years married and illiterate. They belonged to joint-family households and lived in kutcha houses. Despite limited resources and support, all respondents were actively involved in fishing-related activities. However, the majority had never attended any training programs related to fisheries and aquaculture. Empowering women in aquaculture and fisheries activities can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth in the Tapi District. This cooperative initiative can provide a platform for women to share resources, knowledge and experiences, leading to improved outcomes for their businesses.