Role of Self Help Groups in Enhancement of Livelihoods of fishermen – A case study of Kakinada Harbour of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Women constitute approximately half of the India's population and play a vital role in building our Nation. Women play a crucial role in Marine fisheries and aquaculture, specifically in the small-scale and artisanal fisheries sector. It is estimated that there are about 5.4 million people fully engaged in fisheries activities, out of which, 3.90 million are fishermen and 1.50 million are fisherwomen. The livelihoods of fishermen are often marked by economic uncertainty, vulnerability to natural factors, and exploitation by middlemen. However, concerted efforts have been made to enhance their living conditions and promote sustainable fishing practices. The primary data is collected from sample of 200 Self Help Groups fisherwomen in the Kakinada harbour of Andhra Pradesh. In the study area 83 per cent are of the sample respondents are living in pucca houses. 47.5 percent of the respondents joined in SHG to avail loan by becoming the member. 50.5 per cent of total respondents belong to 21-40 age group. 33 per cent of the respondents are having primary education, 17.5 per cent are having secondary education and 7 per cent are having higher education. 18 per cent of the sample respondents are spent their SHG loan amount on purchase of home appliances & gold, and 16.5 per cent respondents are spent on children’s education. The perception of the respondents on the impact of SHGs shows that there is a positive correlation between years of membership and impact of SHG in improvement of livelihoods of fishermen.