JOB DIVERSIFACTION AMONG TRADITIONAL FISHERFOLK: A MICRO ANALYSIS OF TRIVANDRUM DISTRICT
A DISSERTATION SUBMITTED TO THE PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF
THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE
OF MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK.
NAME: SREEJA P.S
EXAM CODE: 91506407
CANDIDATE CODE: 12115020
Loyola College of Social Sciences
Sreekariyam P.O,
Thiruvananthapuram- 695017
2012 - 2014
CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL
This is certify that the work embodied in this dissertation entitled Job Diversification among Traditional Fisherfolk: A micro analysis of Trivandrum District has been carried out by Ms. Sreeja P.S of Fourth semester MSW student in Masters in Social Work under my supervision and guidance that is here by approved for submission.
Thiruvananthapuram
25/7/2014
Dr. Charles L Staff Guide Department of Social Work Loyola College of Social Sciences Trivandrum Recommended for forwarding to the University of Kerala Dr. Sonny Jose Head of the Department of Social Work Loyola College of Social Sciences
Recommended for forwarding to the University of Kerala Dr .K.A Joseph Principal Loyola College of Social Science Thiruvananthapuram 25/7/2014
DECLARATION
I Sreeja P.S final semester MSW student, department of social work, Loyola College of Social Sciences do hereby declare that this dissertation entitled “Job Diversification among traditional Fisherfolk:A micro analysis of Trivandrum district” is a bonafide work done by me and no part of this dissertation has been presented before any, degree, diploma, associateship, fellowship or other similar title or recognition of any university to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Thiruvananthapuram Sreeja P.S
4th semester MSW student
Department of Social Work
Loyola College of Social Sciences
Thiruvananthapuram
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I owe my deep gratitude first to God,the source of my inspiration and existence.The success of the study owes much to certain personalities who offered whole hearted cooperation and help.I take this opportunity to express my sincere and hearty thanks to each and every one of them.I would like to thank Dr. K.A Joseph,Principal of Loyola College of Social Sciences,Dr.Sonny Jose Head of the Department of Social work for providing a congenial environment to do my research.
My special thanks to Dr. Charles Leon, my research guide,for his expert guidance ,suggestions,encouragement and support.
I express my sincere thanks to Fr.Saji for his timely guidance and support. I would like to thank the rest of all the Faculties for their encouragement, insightful comments and hard questions especially Dr. Prakash Pillai. My sincere thanks also go to Mr. Sumesh, our beloved lab technician for offering technical support.
Sincere thanks to Fr.Mathias for giving me this opportunity to conduct my research in collaboration with Trivandrum Social Service Society and for his support and encouragement throughout my research.
I am indebted to Dr.Sanjeeva Gosh and Mr.Shyjan David for their guidance, valuable critique for the successful completion of my study.
I would like to remember Mr. Jaison and the Animators of TSSS for helping me at the time of data collection.
I acknowledge whole-heartedly my friends Elizabeth K.Thomas and Ajith Kumar J for their valuable remarks and suggestions completion of my study.
My sincere thanks to people of the coastal villages in Trivandrum for their cooperation with honesty and passion.
I express my special thanks to the librarian Mr.Sunil Kumar and Asst. librarian Mr.George of Loyola College of Social Sciences.
I thank my family who stood by me through thick and thin and my friends for their support. I am grateful to all who have in one way or the other helped me in accomplishing this work
SREEJA P.S
CONTENT
Sl no. Content Page no
1 Introduction 1-6
2 Literature Review 7-12
3 Research Methodology 15-17
4 Data Analysis and Interpretation 18-34
5 Findings,Reccomendations and 35-38 Conclusion
6 Appendix 39-41
7 Bibliography 42-43
List of tables Table no. Title Page no 4.2.1 Age wise distribution of the respondents 19
4.3.1 Distribution of the respondents based on 20 job
4.3.2 Distribution of the respondents based on 21 mode of fishing 4.3.3 Distribution of the respondents based on 22 the time engage in other activities 4.3.4 Distribution of the respondents based on 22 the reason for moving to jobs other than fishing
4.3.5 Respondents who feels that the 23 advancement in technology has affected fishing
4.3.2 Distribution of the respondents based on 23 their opinion on way technological advancement has affected fishing
4.3.6 Respondents who feel that fishing is a 24 low profile job
4.3.7 Distribution of the respondents based on 25 feeling that diversified fisherfolk improved their quality of life
4.3.8 Respondents feeling that diversifying 25 from fishing helps in faster economic growth
4.4.1 Reasons for unwillingness 27
4.4.2 Distribution based on the place of the 28 migrated person
4.4.3 Distribution based on the reason for 29 migration to other places
4.4.4 Distribution based on the kind of job 29 engaged in by the migrated person
4.4.5 Distribution based on number of years the 30 member have been working under MGNREGA
4.4.6 Respondents who wish to move from 31 coastal area
4.4.7 Reason for interest of moving from 31 coastal area
List of diagrams/graphs Chart no. Title Page no 4.2.1 Distribution of respondents based on 20 ownership of land
4.3.1 Respondents engaged in activities other than 21 fishing
4.3.2 Distribution of the respondents based on their 23 opinion on way technological advancement has affected fishing
4.3.3 Respondents who feel that jobs other than 24 fishing is necessary for survival
4.3.4 Respondents attracted by the migrants 26
4.4.1 Respondents who like younger generation to 26 go for fishing
4.4.2 Distribution based on the migration of family 28 members
4.4.3 Distribution based on the engagement in work 30 under MGREGA
Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Introduction 1.2 Fishing Community 1.3 Fisherfolk in Kerala 1.4 Modernisation and fisherfolk 1.5 Diversification in coastal and inland fishing communities 1.6 About Trivandrum Social Service Society (TSSS) 1.7 Statement of the problem 1.8 Significance of the study 1.9 Conclusion
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1.1 Introduction
As per the population census 2011,the fisherfolk in kerala is 10.02 lakh covering 7.71 lakh in the coastal area and 2.31 lakh in the inland sector.It is also estimated that about 71600 people are engaged in fishery-allied activities.This fisherfolk of the state contribute about 8 percent of the GSDP from the agriculture sector which gives the significance of the sector to the state economy.(Economic Review,2012)
1.2 Fishing community
For centuries, Kerala’s fishing communities shared the ocean’s resources and maintained close social and economic ties despite cultural and religious differences. In recent years however, explains N P Chekkutty, international subsidies, the stringent conditions of global trade, and intense competition from international fishing conglomerates have seen a sharp decline in profits. The resultant impoverishment, anger and discontent have opened the doors to communalism and violence
The southwestern coast of India, consisting mainly of Kerala and south Konkan, is one of the richest in the country in terms of biodiversity, abundance of fish stocks, cultural diversity of fishing communities, and historical traditions. With a recorded history of fishing life and trade relations with far-flung countries like ancient Greece, Rome and the Arabs going back almost 2,000 years, life in this coastal belt has been comparatively friction-free and prosperous. There was abundant trade in spices and other valuables through major ports like Panthalayani and Kodungallur -- known as Fandalini and Muziris in Arab and Roman texts - - and the sea has been bountiful. The life of the coastal people was comfortable and peaceful, as they devised their own traditional methods of sorting out differences, methods that have remained in place for centuries. ( Dhanuraj D,2004,Traditional Fishermen Folk In Kerala & Their Livelihood Issues)
1.3 Fisherfolk in Kerala
Kerala is one of India’s nine maritime states, and it is also the largest fish-producing state in the country. It contributes more than 30% of India’s total marine fish production and over 36% of marine exports. Kerala enjoys a long and unbroken coastline that extends for 590 km; nine of its 14 districts have the Arabian Sea as their western border.
Kerala has an economic zone of 36,000 sq km of sea that is rich in diversity; over 100 varieties of fish are found here. According to a 1976 estimate, the fishery resource potential of the continental shelf of Kerala is around 8 lakh tonnes a year, of which 4 lakh tonnes is considered to be from the inshore sea area of 0-50 m depth. In 1991, the working group on resources, constituted by the Government of India, estimated Kerala’s marine potential at around 5.70 lakh tonnes per annum.
The abundance and diversity of fish resources in Kerala’s inshore sea is the result of unique geographical and oceanographic features. These shores lie 20 degrees north of the equator, with relatively warm and stable climatic conditions round the year. Besides, the Arabian Sea estuaries are nourished by 41 rivers originating in the Western Ghats; in fact, a river joins the sea at every 15 km, on an average, providing fresh water and the right mix of salt and nutrients for all forms of marine life to flourish. Sandy and muddy sub-strata, large coral reefs, rich benthic vegetation and protective coastal plants like mangroves are other important factors that aid biodiversity. The two monsoon cycles, occurring every year, enrich the sea with oxygen and fresh water.
According to recent figures, more than 1.5 million people depend on fisheries for their livelihood. Official figures state that there are around 150,000 active fishermen along the Kerala coast, working both in the traditional artisanal sector as well as in the mechanised sector.
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1.4 Modernisation and Fisherfolk
Till 1989-90, fish catches were abundant, reaching almost 6.5 lakh tonnes. Then there was a steady drop. In 1991, catches dropped to 5.64 lakh tonnes, and the next year, 5.61 lakh tonnes. In the past one decade there has been a fall in marine catch, putting a lot of pressure on Kerala’s fishing population. This is one of the main reasons behind the growing social strife in coastal regions. As pressure on marine resources mounts, so too have social tensions in Kerala’s coastal villages.(Sustain Fish- Proceedings of the International symposium,2005)
Traditionally, fishing communities maintained their social and economic ties on the basis of common property resources. They developed a number of social institutions that effectively oversaw disputes. These institutions, which continued to flourish for generations, have been under increasing pressure in recent times, mainly because of social and economic changes in the post-Independence years.
Two big changes are the advent of mechanised fishing and the pressures of economic liberalisation and globalisation. Traditional skills ruled fishing operations till the late-1960s. These artisans had developed their own skills based on rural technology. Historians say that this traditional knowledge system goes back to early historical times in south India, indicated in the rich Sangam literary texts that belong to the period between the 3rd century BC and the 3rd century AD. According to scholars, the southern region -- known generally as Tamilakam, which included almost the entire region south of the Deccan -- was divided into five geographical segments. The people who inhabited the coasts, known as Neithal, were described as Meenavar or Paravar in Sangam literature. The Sangam texts refer to a variety of fishing operations and also mention fish like ayala (salmon) and sraku (shark), still popular in the region. They speak of marakkalam, a wooden vessel that floats on the water. Those who operated the marakkalams later came to be known as Marakkars, a seafaring community in the south.
The present demographic patterns among fishing communities in the south of India have remained unchanged for years: Muslims and Christians have been part of coastal society since the advent of these religions in the region. The demographic strength of both these communities is almost equal, with 27% of the population being backward caste Hindus, 30% Muslims, and 37% Catholic Christians, mainly Latin Catholics who are confined to southern parts of Kerala. Many Hindu temples owned by the Mokayas had established customs like special avakasams or rights for Muslim families. For example, a Mokaya temple in Vatakara observed a tradition in which Muslim families in the vicinity made ceremonial offerings of betel leaves and areca nuts at the annual festival. (N P Chekkutty2006)
Kerala is a maritime state which supports a well established marine fishing industry. A vibrant traditional fisheries sector survives in the state despite the expansion of mechanisation. The traditional sector has also imbibed certain aspects of mechanisation by going in for engine power to propel their crafts, but the fishing operations and the social relations among fishermen are still influenced by traditional systems. Traditional knowledge and belief systems influence the fishing operations, sharing work and income and many other aspects of life. Traditional knowledge constitutes the sum total knowledge and practises which are based on people's accumulated experiences in dealing with situations and problems in various aspects of life and such knowledge and practises are special to a particular culture (Wang, 1988). The passing on of traditional knowledge is generally informal and transmission cultural and is readily available at no cost (Kothari, 1995). The changes that are taking place are slow, with the impacts of modernisation becoming discernible. With improvements in social indicators like health and education, the successive generations are opting out of the sector. It may be a matter of time before the existing vestiges of traditional knowledge passes into the annals of history.(Kothari, 1995; Lekshmi and Babu, 2009;Nirmale et al., 2004).
1.5 Diversification in coastal and inland fishing communities
Some thoughts on the reasons for misconceptions regarding diversification in fishing Communities 3
In fishing communities, evidence of diversification and plural income streams remains patchy. Fishing communities are often perceived as highly specialised and dependent on a single source of food and income: water (either fresh or marine). In fact, sole reliance on marine resources is not a characteristic of coastal economies now nor in the past. Instead, there is overwhelming archaeological evidence dating back to the late stone age (Neolithic) of the contrary. Back then, coastal communities exploited marine foods in conjunction with wild and domestic plants and animals on a seasonal basis, giving rise to diverse economies supporting complex societies (Binliff 1977;Clark 1983; Deith 1988).
One of the first reasons for skewed perceptions about the status and activities of fisherfolk, is that fisheries have been traditionally – and incorrectly – associated with poverty and marginality (Béné 2003), with fishing a last resort activity, and impeding households from engaging in ‘positive’ diversification processes as a means to escape poverty. In addition, numerous sources report, in a general manner, the importance of fisheries as a major contributor to livelihoods. Although this is in essence true, this generalisation hides the fact that fishers also engage in other jobs in parallel to fishing, and that these other jobs probably contribute on average equally, if not more, to the income and wellbeing of fishing households. The “lack of opportunities for alternative livelihoods in fishing communities” is often bluntly reported, yet sometimes next to evidence showing the contrary (e.g. MRAG 2003). Furthermore, the literature is very elusive as to whether these ‘alternative opportunities’ to be promoted should be related to fisheries (for instance, a fish frying post-harvest business) or not. Notwithstanding, income from fishing can be a stepping stone for households to access services and improved education, engage and invest in different but complementary activities. Some studies have started to mention the diversity of pursuits of fishers, explained by the richness of the environment in which they live, the diversity of the natural resources at their disposal, and their social and cultural background. The physical and biological diversity of the land-water interface may however bring both opportunities and threats to those living there, in particular if they are poor and in the context of growing climate change-related uncertainties (FAO 2008).
1.6 Trivandrum Social Service Society (TSSS)
The study present study on job diversification among traditional fisherfolk is done in collaboration with Trivandrum Social Service Society (TSSS).TSSS is a Non-Governmental organization registered under Travancore Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies' Registration Act, 1955 (Reg. No.352/85). Ever since its inception on June 7th 1960 it has been marching forward very successfully for the upliftment of the downtrodden and marginalized people of the Trivandrum and Kanyakumari district, especially of fishermen, farmers, dalits, caual labours, women and children. We have 106 TSSS village unites in the Archdiocese of Trivandrum, headed by the Parish Priest as the president and two elected members each from all the Basic Christian Communities (BCCs) / Basic Human Communities (BHCs). This group forms village level General Body, from which a 13 member executive committee is formed at the village level. TSSS is the nodal organization of Trivandrum Archdiocese to implement social action programmes for the empowerment and development of people in Trivandrum and Kannyakumari Districts irrespective of caste, creed or religion. The society is a non-governmental, non-political and non-profitable charitable organization dedicated to the integral development of people in the operational area.
The operational area of TSSS encompases Chirayinkeezhu, Thiruvanathapuram and Neyyatinkara Taluks of Trivandrum district and Vilavankodu Taluk of Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu.The Operational Area of TSSS has been divided into Eight Regions.
Villages
Anchuthengu: Ayroor, Mungode, Venniyode, Mampally, Attingal, Angengo, Poothura, Arayathuruthy, Thazamplly.
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Pudukurichy: Koithoorkonam, Murukumpuzha, Pudukurichy, Marianad, Santhipuram, Vettuthura, Puthenthope, St.Andrew’s, St. Dominic, Kochuthura, Pallithura, St. Joseph’s Kazhakoottom, Fathimatha Kazhakootom,Pallithura. Valiaveli, Kochuveli, Vettukadu, Kannanthura, Thope, Kochuthoppu, Valiathura, Valiathura St. Xavier’s, Cheriyathura, St. Sebastian’s Vettukadu. Kovalam: Vizhinjam, Poonthura, Edayar, Paruthikkuzhy, Palapaura, Poonkulam, Nelliyoodu, Peringammala, Vawammoola, Kakkamoola, Azhakulam, Karackamandapam, Ponnumamgalam Pulluvila : Adimalathura, Kochupally, Pulluvila, Pallom, Lourdepuram, Puthiyathura, Kochuthura, Karimkulam, Poovar, Paruthiyoor, Kollamkodu, Chowara, Vellalimbu, Karichal
For the present study on job diversification among traditional fisherfolk in Trivandrum District the data was collected from five regions and from the five regions two coastal villages were taken. The regions include Anchuthengu(Mampally,Anchuthengu), Pudukurichy(Marianad,Puthenthope),Valiathura(Valiathura,Valiaveli),Kovalam(Vizhinjam,Poonthura), Pulluvila (Adimalathura, Kollamkodu)
1.7 Statement of the problem
The traditional fisher folk are all those men, women and children who earn a livelihood by involving in harvesting, handling, processing and marketing of fish and fish products.The fishing sector is undergoing rapid internal changes and facing even more rapidly changing external environment.Fishing once considered as community based occupation is now reckoned as lucrative commercial activity.The sole dependence of the people on marine fishery for livelihood is a challenge On one hand, the stock of resource reported as depleting and resultant conflict prevails between the traditional fisherman and modern sector capitalists.Desistance from the hereditary occupation due to education and resulting unemployment among youth is high.Emigration to gulf countries as unskilled labourers put the community into debt trap at least to a certain minimum period.Through the present research an attempt is made to study the factors, forms and magnitude of diversification
1.8 Significance of the study
The people along the marine coast of Kerala are still trapped in their traditional occupation provides just modicum of living. Besides the poor income,indebtedness,deprevation and poverty there are certain other factors related to the very nature of occupation and settlement pattern of the fisheries folk which keep them vulnerable. It may be of great interest to note that the occupations of about 33% of the emigrants out there at gulf are fishing. About 50% are coolies and therefore skilled and professional migrants are almost nil among fisherfolk.The findings of the study would help in making necessary interventions within the fisheries sector.
1.9 Conclusion
Job diversification is generally a good thing for rural poverty reduction. It helps to lessen the vulnerability of the poor to food insecurity and livelihood collapse; it can provide the basis for building assets that permit individuals and households to construct their own exit routes out of poverty; and it can improve the quality and sustainability of natural resources that constitute key assets in rural livelihoods.
These effects occur because diversification widens people’s options, reduces reliance on particular natural resources, encourages spatially diverse transactions, increases cash in circulation in rural areas, and enhances human capital by providing those who diversify with new skills and experiences.
5
The chapter explains about the fishing community and on the effect of modernisation. Diversification in coastal and inland fishing community is also discussed and the Statement of the problem and the significance of the present study is included. The next chapter deals with Literature Review.
6
Chapter 2 Literature Review
7
Introduction
Kerala, an Indian state which had received world wide attention for its unique achievements in the social sector development vis-a-vis low per capita income,is passing through a new growth trajectory since the late 1980s with a per capita income well above a national average (Kannan 2005).Ever since the dictum of Kerala model arose,there were critiques who pointed out that Kerala’s attainment in health and education was only based on averages and therefore has outliners.
The marine fisher folk of Kerala has been acknowledged as one of the marginalised communities during the lopsided phase of Kerala’s development experience (Kurien 2000).A prominent issue that emerges, at present,is whether the process of development in contemporary Kerala could impart its effects on the erstwhile marginalised communities such as the marine fisherfolk.
Fisheries sector has been faring high in terms of its earning potential and employability of vast majority of coastal community in the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors associated with fishing. However, the plight of marine fisherfolk amplified by inequitable distribution of earnings leading to indebtedness and marginalization is a much debated issue for the planners and policy makers. Improvements in technology has led to unbridled capital investment in this sector and has attracted more and more people from the adjacent coastal transects who necessarily do not belong to the fishing community. Seafood exports from India is exploring new heights with increasing opportunities for value addition and branding of products. This has led to mushrooming of export units employing large number of skilled and unskilled workers. Further over the years, there is increase in the coastal fisher population inducing more and more people in fishing and allied activities. Disguised unemployment is rampant in all sectors since earnings from marine fisheries are not proportionate to the increase in stakeholders. This has instigated labour migration induced by the earning potential in the distant waters coupled with limited resources in their vicinity.( Cecile Brugere, Katrien Holvoet et.al,2008)
Platteau Philippe Jean,Murikan Jose et.al (1985),Technology Credit and Indebtedness in Marine Fishing,Hidustan Publing Coorporation
The study conducted by Jean Philippe and Jose Murikan gives a central picture of the fishing life in kerala that is undergoing deep and rapid changes in the direction of increased polarisation.Given the requirements of the modern technology,ecological conditions and locational factors have come to assume decisive imporatance.The result is that growth proceeds swiftly in some suitably located ‘development enclaves’ so that opportunities created by the opening up of Indian fisheries to the international market forces can be seized upon and utilized to the best possible extend;by contrast,development is irretrievably blocked and stagnation if not gradual decrease of –incomes prevails in all the areas that are afflicted with severe ecological constraints and are therefore left outside the modernisation move.
The situation obtaining in the sector of fisheries thus resembles that currently observed in agricultural sector;the people with largest asset base re those who benefit the most from available credit facilities.
The crucial question becomes hoe to increase the incomes of the traditional small scale fisherman and how to make their operations more economically viable.In traditional backward areas like Poovar,some immediate steps can be taken to improve the present situation .Two steps deserve a special mention here.The first one is concerned with technical condition sof production.The second course of action which commends itself has to do with marketing and fish preservation.
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The encouragement of small scale fishing development is not advocated here because ‘small is beautiful’ and ought therefore to be preserved.The small scale sector deserves to be developed and protected because it is economically,technically,ecologically and socially efficient.
Mathew P.T(1998),Mukkuva Cosmology,Loyola Journal of Social Sciences ,Vol X11,No 1
P.T Mathew in his paper explicates the cosmological featuresof Mukkuvars,an important community in Kerala.
The Mukkuva community, it was made clear in the beginning does not present a cosmology that guides their life in everyday conduct and behaviour become evident.The prominence given to sense of direction is significant not only to the fishing operation, but also to the religious conduct.
Luckmann defines world view as social form of religion that is elementary and non specific,It is only within the specific world view that sacret universe of the people become intelligible.The religious representation that embody the sacred universe provide sense and meaning to isolated events and objects in the world of everyday life.They loose their significance if taken in isolation and cumulatively they provide interpretative schemes and recipes for the conduct of individuals and collectivities.this explains why consideration of world view or cosmology become crucial in any academic persuit or helping profession
Rajan J.B (2002) Labour mobility in the small scale fisheries sector,Centre for Development Studies
The major findings of the study are labour mobility in the fisheries sector may be broadly categorised into spatial and occupational.The proportion of workforce in fishing and related activities has declined in the present generation.The trasition probability of intergenerational mobility shows that the scope for employment diversification for the future generation from fishing community is small.The proportion of male workforce in non fishing activities forms 6 to 14 percent of total male workforce in the three centres surveyed;non fishing or fish related activities are mainly employed in gulf countries or state government service.Different forms of labour mobility in fisheries sector show that inter generational and inter sectoral occupational mobility have not been pronounced ;however,intersectoral technological mobility has vastly increases.
Dr.Rajan J (2002) The Fishing Economy of Kerala,Sujilee Publishing House
The fisheries sector has a prominent place in the national economy of India.The fisheries sector along with the sea food and ancillary industries are providing gainful employment to over four million people and fishing industry is making a valuable contribution both in our domestic food supply and to our exports.The potential of fishery wealth is enoromous and only a small part of it is being currently exploited.
Kerala which occupied the pride of place in fish production in India for long periods in the past still accounts for more than quarter of country’s marine production and fishermen population and one fifth of its fishing fleet.Fishery is vital importance to state’s economy judged in terms of its contribution to employment,income,foreign exchange earnings and protein intake of people. The state has an enormous potential of fishing resources which accounts for 28.8 percent of the marine potential of India.
In spite of its imporatance to the economy the fishery sector has been facing severe problems of widespread misery and poverty of the fisherfolk,erratic and violent fluctuations in output,exploitative practices by middleman,money lenders and merchants.
Human Development Report of Fisherfolk in Kerala,Dec 2009,Department of Economics,Dr. John Mathai Centre,University of Calicut
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The proportion of working age population (15-59) of fisherfolk has been observed as around 70 percent ;of the rest 5 percent old (60+) and 25 percent children (0-14).But children below 14 years and old above 60 years are also found to be engaged in fisheries sector in order to supplement the family income and there is no course no scope of retirement.
Kerala’s emigrants status of general population is changing rapidly across the regions.The number of skilled and professional emigrants is increasing in many parts of the state.It may be of great interest to note that the occupations of about 33 percent of emigrants out there in gulf are fishing.About 50 percent are coolies and therefore the skilled and professional migrants are almost nil among fisherfolk.Although the general trend in the state is changing towards emigration of professional and skilled manpower and making significant amount as remittance,the fisherfolk still able to supply unskilled labourers for a modicum of renumeration that would take at least one year to cover up the cost of emigration-the visa,ticket and intermediatary charges.This implies that the kerala fisherfolk has to go a long way to attain human development through geographical movement across the borders.
Dr.SivaMurugan C,Amritha Lakshmi T,Rural Develoment and migrant fishermen in Tamilnadu, Kurukshetra, Jouranal on Rural Development, Dec 2010,Vol 59
The study on rural development and migrant fisherman in Tamilnadu reveals that in the study area 42 percent of members of the households are in the age group of 30-40 ie. Working age population.40 percent of migrated fisherman to build concrete house with the field.This shows the improvement in the housing conditions of migrated fishermen.In the study area,method of marketing is only sale and store.To improve their standard of living ,people are moving from one place to another.From the study it is observed that the effects of migration admitted that social and economic status have considerably increased due to migration.Migration provides them permanent job,adequate wage and reasonable savings.
Aarti Kelkar-Khambete (2012), Traditional fisherfolk of Kerala - An article about their socio-economic organisation and the special relationship they share with the sea and the environment
This article by Aarti Kelkar-Khambete informs of the socio economic organisation of the fisherfolk in Kerala and their special relationship with the sea. Fisherfolk form an important community in Kerala, but remain neglected and marginalised inspite of the higher socio-economic progress the state has made as a whole. In this article, the author points out, that it is important to understand that the fishing community is a distinctive group of people geographically located in the coastal areas and have their own way of life and a distinctive culture, and to understand the special relationship, they share with the sea and the environment.
Kerala has a coastline of 589.5 kilometres, which forms 10% of India’s total coastline and this has facilitated trade with other countries since a very long time. The density of population is very high all along the coastline as compared to the midlands and the highlands (Asia Development Bank, 2003). A very rich marine wealth with a large variety of fish and a highly skilled population of fishermen have made Kerala a leading producer and consumer of fish (Aerthayil, 2000).
The high rainfall and a large number of rivers makes the Kerala coast especially fertile for fish.Fish is a source of livelihood and of rich protein for the fishworkers as well as the people of Kerala and fishing plays an important part in the economy of the state (Kurien, 2001).
The average fishlanding in Kerala accounts for about 20% of the total landing of the country (Department of Fisheries, 2005). The average share of fish exports of fish products from Kerala was 10.24% in 2000-2001, while it has increased to 15.97% in 2002 and 19% in 2005-2006 (Department of Fisheries, 2005) of the total marine export of India in the same period. The average fishing area in Kerala is the lowest as compared to
10 this output. This shows that the fishing pressure on the coastal areas is very high in Kerala (Dietrich and Nayak, 2002; Aerthayil, 2000).
Apart from fishing, the fisheries sector also includes allied activities such as working on the beach, fish distribution on a small scale, fish curing, work in peeling sheds and fish processing work in the plants.
D’cruz ,Titto ,Manuel,Joseph (2012),Development and coastal community: Case studies of two coastal villages in Trivandrum district,Kerala
The fishing community lives literally and otherwise on the finge.They occupy a very narrow strip of the coast,the poorer being closer to the sea.It is often depicted that the coastal area is densely populated. Living on the edge also affects the occupational mobility of the community. The more helpless remain in fishing being a tradition. Opportunities in the middle east have certainly influenced the coastal community too,though they were relatively ill equipped to cash in the opportunity in comparison to the mainstream. The comparison follows the overall pattern with 18 percent of the families at Kannathura being employed in Middle east against 6 percent in Marinad.The resultant higher levels of income have had its impact on the quality of life of fishing villages in general particularly at Kannathura.Consequent to leaving fishing and seeking employement elsewhere the next generation too has a head start acquire better employment prospects in diverse fields in Kannathura in comparison to Marinad.
Sathiadas R and Pratap K.Sangeetha,Employmet Scanario and Labour Migration in Marine Fisheries ,2012,CMFRI
The economic development in coastal belt is not in congruence with the other regions and the socio economic status remains backward compared to the other sectors.The fishing population has grown over the years;inducing more and more people in the primary,secondary and teritiary sector.Disguised unemployment is rampant with the increased earning potential due to introduction of labour saving and capital intensive mechanised sector is slowly being phrased out,driving the labourers to other sectors ,leading to overcrowding and resultant low per capita earnings.The high earning potential of shark in domestic and international markets induce the fishers for migratory fishing in search of fishing grounds.However,fisherfolk encounter several problems during the long duration of trips away from their homes,creating social tension in families and poor income from male members after the trips that are often trapped with non formal sources of debt.
Conclusion
Like ‘poverty’, diversification is a multi-dimensional concept.Misconceptions in its application to fisherfolk are linked to the complexity and variability of the concept itself, and to our incomplete, if not biased, anthropological knowledge of fisherfolk and their communities, in particular in relation to development paradigms and efforts. These misconceptions have translated into poor policies assuming fishers trapped into dependence on their resource or trapping them further to it, with few escape routes and opportunities for accumulation and livelihood improvement outside the sector.
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Chapter 3 Reasearch Methodology
3.1 Introduction 3.2 Objectives 3.3 Definition of the concepts 3.4 Variables 3.5 Research Design 3.6 Pilot study 3.7 Universe of the study 3.8 Unit of the study 3.9 Sampling 3.10 Sample size 3.11 Source of data 3.12 Tool of data collection 3.13 Pretest 3.14 Data collection 3.15 Data analysis 3.16 Chapterisation 3.17 Limitations of the study 3.18 Conclusion
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3.1 Introduction
The present study is on job diversification among traditional fisherfolk : A micro analysis of Trivandrum district. The Chapter deals with Objectives, Definition of concepts, Variable, Research Design, Pilot study, Universe, Unit, Sampling, Sample size, Sources of data, Tool of data collection,Pretest,Data collection, Data analysis,Chapterisation,Limitations of the study and Conclusion
3.2 Objectives
General Objective
To study on the job diversification among traditional fisherfolk
Specific objective
To study on the demographic profile of the respondents
To study the factors leading to job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
To identify the forms of job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
To assess the magnitude of diversification
3.3 Definition of Concepts
1) Diversification
Theoretical definition:
Diversification is the process by which a household increases the diversity (i.e. number) of its income generating activities (Ellis 2000a)
Operational definition:
Diversification in the study is assumed as diversifying to jobs other than fishing and allied activities by the traditional fisherfolk 2) Traditional fisherfolk
Theoretical definition:
The traditional fisher folk are all those men, women and children who earn a livelihood by involving in harvesting, handling, processing and marketing of fish and fish products ( Thomas Kocherry,2004)
Operational definition:
The society of those who are part of the ancestry and culture of fishing
3) Job :
Theoretical definition:
A task or piece of work, especially one that is paid (Oxford Dictionary)
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Operational definition: Job in the study refers to the fishing and allied activities
3.4 Variables
Independent:
The independent variables are Demographic profile,factors leading to job diversification
Dependent:
The dependent variables are Job diversification,forms of job diversification,magnitude of job diversification
3.5 Research design
The research design used in the study is descriptive research design.As the name suggests,descriprive research studies are those studies which are concerned with describing the characteristics of a particular individual,or,group.In this study,the researcher describes the Job Diversification among Traditional Fisherfolk.
3.6 Pilot study
The pilot study was conducted to know the feasibility of the study.As part of the study,the researcher visited Veliyaveli coastal village of Trivandrum district.The topic was discussed with the research guide and the people in the village.
3.7 Universe of the study
All coastal villages in Trivandum district.
(The operational area of TSSS encompases Chirayinkeezhu, Thiruvanathapuram and Neyyatinkara Taluks of Trivandrum district)
3.8 Unit of the study
Head of the household in a coastal village of Trivandrum District
3.9 Sampling
The reasearcher used purposive sampling for the selection of ten villages from the five regions.They are Anchuthengu (Mampally,Anchuthengu),Pudukurichy (Marianad, Puthenthope),Valiathura (Valiathura,Valiaveli),Kovalam(Vizhinjam,Poonthura),Pulluvila (Adimalathura, Kollamkodu).The respondents from each village was taken using Simple Random Sampling.The tool used for data collection was interview schedule.
3.10 Sample size
Sample size is 100 ( Ten respondents from each village)
3.11 Sources of data
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The primary source of data collection was obtained from the traditional fisherfolk and secondary data from books, internet and personal communication.
3.12 Tool of data collection
A self prepared interview schedule consisting of three objectives was used for data collection
3.13 Pretest
In order to test the reliability of the interview schedule pretest was conducted on five respondents in Veliyaveli.Based on the pretest necessary modifications was brought to the interview schedule.
3.14 Data collection
The data was collected from the respondents selected through simple random sampling using interview schedule.
3.15 Data Analysis
Data collected was analyzed with the help of statistic packages for social sciences (spss).Data was analysed using various charts,digrams etc. for attaining the objectives of the study
3.16 Chapterisation
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Research Methodology
Chapter 3: Literature Review
Chapter 4: Data Analysis and Interpretation
Chapter 5: Major Findings,Reccomendations and Conclusion
3.17 Limitations of the study
The limitations of the study were Inadequecy of Time,Respondents hold back information in hope of getting some reward from the interviewer it can affect the quality of the data.Since the sample size of the present study was considerably small,the researcher had to compromise on the universal applicability and scope of generalisation
3.18 Conclusion
Methodology gives an overall idea about the methods used in the study.The methodology helped the researcher to do the research in a systematic and scientific manner.The methodology chapter is the source to get a general picture about the research conducted.The chapter deals with the methodology adapted by the researcher to carry out the research.Next chapter deals with data analysis and interpretation.
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Chapter 4 Data Analysis and Interpretation
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Objective 1: To study on the demographic profile of the respondents
4.3Objective2: To study the factors leading to job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
4.4 Objective 3: To identify the forms of job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
4.5 Conclusion
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4.1 Introduction
Marine fish landings of India during the year 2012 have provisionally been estimated as 3.32 million tones with a decrease of about 0.05 million tonnes compared to the estimate for the last year. Among the states Gujarat was the highest contributor of Marine fish production followed by Kerala. In total fish production Andhra Pradesh was the highest contributor and Kerala stands 4th position. During 2012-13, 5.31 lakh tonnes of marine fish were landed in Kerala showing a decline of 0.22 lakh tonnes (4.14 per cent) over the previous year. The high value species among the fish catches are still few, prominent among them are Seer fish, Prawn, Ribbon fish and Mackerel. The quality of these high value species in the total catch ultimately decides the income of the fishermen.The major issues in the sector are price exploitation of selected stock, ineffective regulation,ever increasing fleet size ,lack of responsible fishing practices etc.The marine environment has been revitalized with the introduction of artificial reef to enhance its productivity. Maximum utilization of harvested resourses can be ensured for its proper storage,transportation and distribution. Focused attention for the implementation of coastal area development project including livelihood security is urgently required. (Economic Review 2013) The study is conducted in collaboration with Trivandrum Social Society (TSSS) in ten coastal villages of Trivandrum district including Anchuthengu (Mampally,Anchuthengu), Pudukurichy (Marianad,Puthenthope), Valiathura (Valiathura,Valiaveli), Kovalam (Vizhinjam,Poonthura), Pulluvila (Adimalathura, Kollamkodu) to find out the factors, forms and magnitude of job diversification among traditional fisherfolk
4.2 Objetctive 1: To study on the demographic profile of the respondents
Table 4.2.1: Age wise distribution of the respondents
Age Frequency Percent 25-35 years 11 11.0 35-45 years 40 40.0 45-55 years 32 32.0 above 55 17 17.0 Total 100 100.0
The table represents that 51 percent of the respondents are below 45 years of age and 49 percent of the respondents are above 45 years of age.
The age group was selected by the researcher to identify the factors,forms and magnitude of job diversification and the difference in the pattern of diversification according to the different age groups.
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Chart 4.2.1:
Distribution of respondents based on ownership of land
The table depicts that 54 percent of the respondents own less than 3 cents of land,27 percent own land between 3-4 cents and 12 percent own above 5 cents of land and 7 percent have no land.
From the bar chart it can be identified that most of the respondents have less than 3 cents of land.The houses are clustered together and which lack basic facilities.In general, the houses are hutments or semi permanent structures made with thatched roofs or tiles, varying according to socio-economic status. However, one can also see some dotted concrete double storied structures belonging to the richer fish merchants, to salaried civil servants, teachers and others. However, even these houses have a shortage of basic amenities such as water and sanitation
4.3 Objective 2:
To study the factors leading to job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
Table 4.3.1:
Distribution of the respondents based on job
Job engaged Frequency Percent
Fishing 98 98.0
Others 2 2.0
Total 100 100.0
The table shows that 98 percent of the respondents were engaged in fishing and 2 percent of the respondents were engaged in other activities.Inadequate knowledge and skills obstruct access to alternative employment
20 among the traditional fisherfolk.Hence the seasonal nature of fishing sometimes makes the traditional fisherfolk to produce income necessary for livelihood
Table 4.3.2:
Distribution of the respondents based on mode of fishing
Mode of fishing Mode of fishing Frequency Percent Traditional 1 1.0 Semi Mechanised 95 95.0 Mechanised 2 2.0 Total 98 98.0 Not Applicable 2 2.0 Total 100 100.0
The table depicts that the mode of fishing used by 95 percent of the respondents are semi mechanized, 1 percent use traditional mode and 3 percent mechanise mode of fishing.Rapid mechanisation ensures that resourceful entrepreneurs take over the resources that had traditionally belonged to the artisanal fisherfolk, thus leading to the destruction of their livelihood. The traditional sector has also imbibed certain aspects of mechanisation by going in for engine power to propel their crafts, but the fishing operations and the social relations among fishermen are still influenced by traditional systems. Traditional knowledge and belief systems influence the fishing operations, sharing work and income and many other aspects of life.
Chart 4.3.1 :
Respondents engaged in activities other than fishing
The table depicts that 76 percent of the respondents do not engage in activities other than fishing and 24 percent of the respondents engage in other activities.Most of the respondents do not engage in activities other than fishing.The lack of education and skills restrict the traditional fisherfolk from diversifying to other
21 jobs.Fishefolk needs to move toward employment in other sectors to supplement the family income,as the income derived from fishing no longer seen to sustain a family.
Table 4.3.3:
Distribution of the respondents based on the time engage in other activities
How Often Frequency Percent
Sometimes 19 19.0
Part time 3 3.0
Full time 2 2.0
Total 24 24.0
Not applicable 76 76.0
Total 100 100.0
The represents that 19 percent of the respondents engage in activities other than fishing sometimes,3 percent of the respondents engage in other activities on part time basis and 2 percent of the respondents fully engage in activities other than fishing. The traditional fishfolk due to seasonality and low income diversify to other jobs to add on to their income. The outcome of a diversification process is a larger number of income generating activities for an individual, household, local or national economy. In the context of fisheries,diversification is promoted as a means for reducing dependence on the resource, making restrictive management easier and less controversial for those affected by such measures
Table 4.3.4: Distribution of the respondents based on the reason for moving to jobs other than fishing
Reason for Moving to other Jobs Frequency Percent Seasonal nature 14 14.0 Low income 8 8.0 Debt 1 1.0 Education 1 1.0 Total 24 24.0 Not applicable 76 76.0 Total 100 100.0
The table depicts that 14 percent of the respondents engage in jobs other than fishing sue to seasonal nature of fishing,8 percent due to low income,1 percent due to debt and 1 percent due to education.The socio economic
22 conditions of fisherfolk in kerala are one of the most backward in india.Seventy percentage of their incomes go for food.Yet,they cannot afford sufficient calories of food for all members of their households.Fishing being a seasonal activity,they have to look subsidiary jobs,which are not always forthcoming.Indebtdness,poor housing and low quality of life are the characteristics of fisherfolk,in stark contrast to the high quality of life achieved by the state as a whole. Table 4.3.5:
Respondents who feels that the advancement in technology has affected fishing
advancement in technology affected fishing Frequency Percent Yes 79 79.0
No 21 21.0 Total 100 100.0 The table shows that 79 percent of the respondents feels that advancement in technology has affected fishing and 21 percent of the respondents feel that advancement in technology has not affected fishing As huge mechanised trawlers began to dominate the coastline, traditional fishermen, whose small vessels were unable to compete with the trawlers, were pushed to the sidelines. The seeds of discontent among the coastal people were sown by this shift in technology, with no proper assessment of the impact of these policies on the poor. A new class of entrepreneur -- the moneylender-cum-boat-owner -- took economic control of the beaches, and tensions began to mount. There were clashes everywhere between the new class of mechanised boat workers and the traditional fish workers. Chart 4.3.2: Distribution of the respondents based on their opinion on way technological advancement has affected fishing
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The table represents that 37 percent of the respondents feel that the advancement in technology has resulted in resource depletion,17 percent feels that the advancement in technology has affected the safety of traditional fisherfolk,16 percent feels that it is resulting in destruction of the equipments of the traditional fisherfolk and 9 percent feels the modern equipments has affected the fishing. The competitive use of fish harvesting techniques, encouraged in both the mechanized and traditional sectors by an initial spurt in output and profits. This caused an alarming depletion of resources in the fisheries sector and led to the degradation of the marine ecosystem. Traditional fishers who had no other employment option suffered and as a community they continued to lag behind others in the rest of the State in all areas of development
Chart 4.3.3:
Respondents who feel that jobs other than fishing is necessary for survival
The Pie Chart depicts that 43 percent of the respondents feels that jobs other than fishing is necessary for survival and 57 percent feels that job other than fishing is not necessary for survival. The introduction of mechanised boats and advanced nets changed the fishery sector altogether. The government gave emphasis to the foreign exchange earnings through increase in production. Since then, the might of the larger groups decided the course of action. The increased price in the case of kerosene and diesel over the years, competition by modern sector capitalists, resource depletion due to motorisation were some of the factors that made the fisherfolk to think that diversification is necessary for survival
Table 4.3.6:
Respondents who feel that fishing is a low profile job
Fishing is a low profile job Frequency Percent Yes 10 10.0 No 90 90.0 Total 100 100.0
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The table represents that 90 percent of the respondents feel that fishing is not a low profile job and 10 percentfeels that fishing is a low profile job. Majority of the fisherfolk do not feel that fishing is a low profile job. They are very much happy to be in the job but the changing scenario is forcing at leat a few of them to get diversified to other job
Table 4.3.7: Distribution of the respondents based on feeling that diversified fisherfolk improved their quality of life
Diversified fisherfolk improved quality of their life Frequency Percent
Always 18 18.0
Sometimes 55 55.0
Never 27 27.0
Total 100 100.0
The table depicts that 18 percent of the respondents feels that diversified fisherfolk has always improved their quality of life,55 percent of the respondents feels that sometimes they have improved their quality of life and 27 percent feels that the diversified fisherfolk has never improved their quality of life.The housing condition,health,education of the migrated people in have improved to some extend for few of the migrants but there are few who were put to debt trap after migrating to gulf countries.
Table 4.3.8: Respondents feeling that diversifying from fishing helps in faster economic growth
Diversifying from fishing helps in faster economic growth Frequency Percent Yes 37 37.0 No 63 63.0 Total 100 100.0
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The table depicts that 63 percent of the respondents feels that diversifying from fishing does not help in faster economic growth and 37 percent feels that diversifying from fishing helps in faster economic growth.The fisherfolk believes that fishing provides good income compared to the other sectors the only issue they face is that the seasonal nature of fishing.They feel that infrastructural development and proper government policies to monitor the entering of modern sector capitalists could help them to remain in this sector.
Chart 4.3.4: Respondents attracted by the migrants
The table shows that 59 percent of the respondents were not attracted by the migrants in the area and 39 percent of the respondents were attracted by the migrants in the area.Some of the fisherfolk feels that migration is not a solution for the improvement in their living standards and the fishing is providing them sufficient income for their livelihood expect at certain times but some feels that lack of education and skills had restricted them from migrating to other places and hence the lack of opportunity restrict them to remain in the sector.
4.4 Objective 3:
Forms of job diversification
Chart 4.4.1:
Respondents who like younger generation to go for fishing
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The table shows that 73 percent of the respondents do not wish the future generation to go for fishing,18 percent of the respondents wish the future generation to go for fishing and 9 percent of the respondents leave it on the them.Most of the respondents do not like the younger generation to go for fishing.They want the younger generation to get educated and move on to a sector that provides permanent income.The fisherfolk feels that even if they send the future generation to continue in fishing they will not be able to survive due to the changes in the ecosystem.The value of education is felt by the coastal population.
Table 4.4.1: Reasons for unwillingness
Reasons Frequency Percent Less income 15 15.0 Low profile 10 10.0 Depletion of resources 9 9.0 Hard Labor 36 36.0 Safety 2 2.0 Total 73 73.0 Not Applicable 27 27.0 Total 100 100.0
The table shows that 15 percent of the respondents do not wish future generation to go for fishing due to less income,10 percent due to low profile of the job,9 percent due to depletion of the resources,2 percent due to the risk involved in fishing and 36 percent due to the hard labor required.The mechanisation and the entering of the capitalists and the resultant resource depletion is one of the reasons for unwillingness. The fisherfolk do not the future generation to engage in fishing also due to the kind of hard labour required in fishing comparing with the other sectors.The modernisation has also contributed to the increase in accidents in the sea which is also a concern for the fisherfolk.
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Chart 4.4.2: Distribution based on the migration of family members
The table represents that 45 percent of the respondents have family members who have migrated to other places in search of job and in case of 55 percent of the respondents no family members have migrated to other places in search of job.Most of the respondents family member has not migrated to other places in search of job even though they face many challenges.
Table 4.4.2: Distribution based on the place of the migrated person
Place o f Migration
Frequency Percent In Trivandrum 2 2.0 Other Districts 8 8.0 In India 3 3.0 Outside India 32 32.0 Total 45 45.0 Not Applicable 55 55.0 Total 100 100.0
The table depicts that 2 percent of the migrants have migrated to places in Trivandrum,8 percent have migrated to other districts in Kerala,3 percent have migrated to places outside India and 32 percent have migrated to paces 28 outside India. Migration has resulted in the decrease of unemployment.A dramatic improvement in the lifestyle (housing,vehicle ownership of people could be observed.
Table 4.4.3: Distribution based on the reason for migration to other places
Reasons for migration Frequency Percent Debt 12 12.0 Unemployment 11 11.0 Low income 17 17.0 Education 5 5.0 Total 45 45.0 Not Applicable 55 55.0 Total 100 100.0
The table shows that 12 percent migrated to other places in search of job due to debt,11 percent due to unemployment,17 percent due to low income and 5 percent due to education. Traditional fishing does not provide income sufficient to maintain high standard of living. Lack of marketing mechanism leads to high fluctuations in price of fish.Hence,a fish worker never gets a reasonable price for the product.When the catch is high ,the price falls since the demand in the domestic markets for their catch remains inelastic.
Table 4.4.4: Distribution based on the kind of job engaged in by the migrated person
Job of migrated person Frequency Percent Government sector 2 2.0 Private 8 8.0 Organized sector 9 9.0 Unorganized sector 26 26.0 Total 45 45.0 Not applicable 55 55.0
Total 100 100.0
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The table represents that 2 percent of the migrated person engage in Government jobs,8 percent in the private sector,9 percent in the organized sector and 26 percent in the unorganized sector.Most of the migrated person belong to the unorganized sector.They work as daily wage workers or coolies.The lack of education and skills in other fields is a reason for increase in people who are in the unoragnized sector.Most of the people who have migrated to other countries engage in fishing. Chart 4.4.3 Distribution based on the engagement in work under MGREGA
The Pie Chart depicts that none of the respondent’s family members go for work under MGNREGA in 70 percent of the cases and 30 percent of the respondents family member goes for work under MGNREGA.Most of the respondents were not aware about the programme which could be a reason for not engaging.Building knowledge regarding the programme could help in increasing the participation of the fisherfolk in the programme.
Table 4.4.5:
Distribution based on number of years the member have been working under MGNREGA
No of years Frequency Percent 0-2 years 15 15.0 2-4 years 14 14.0 above 4 years 1 1.0 Total 30 30.0 Not Applicable 70 70.0 Total 100 100.0
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The table depicts that 15 percent of those working under MGREGA has been working under the programme for 0-2 years,14 percent for 2-4 years and 1 percent above 4 years.The fisherfolk have started to work under the MGNREGA and utilising it as an addition to their income from the fishing and allied activities. Table 4.4.6: Respondents who wish to move from coastal area
wish to move from coastal area Frequency Percent Yes 45 45.0 No 55 55.0 Total 100 100.0
The table shows that 45 percent of the respondents wish to move from coastal area and 55 percent does not wish to move from coastal area.Most of the respondents do not wish to move from the coastal area since they are satisfied with the environment and kind of job they are engaged in.
Table 4.4.7:
Reason for interest of moving from coastal area
Reasons Frequency Percent Low income 1 1.0 Safety 12 12.0 Resource depletion 8 8.0 Health reasons 3 3.0 Future of children 19 19.0 Lack of space 2 2.0 Total 45 45.0 Not Applicable 55 55.0 Total 100 100.0
The Table represents that 19 percent of the respondents wish to move from the coastal area because of the concern about the future of their children,12 percent of the respondents due to the safety,8 percent due to the resource depletion,3 percent due to safety and 1 percent due to less income from fishing.From the table it can be analysed that the traditional fisherfolk who likes to move from the coastal area believe that it necessary for the future generation and their development.They feel that the the kind of environment in which they live can affect the future of the coming generation.They want the educated children to diversify from the sector. 31
4.5 Conclusion
For the traditional fishermen, sea is the life support and fish is the Oxygen for them. They are being indebted to the cultural, social and economical aspects of life to the sea and its surroundings. Life in the coastal village revolves around the fishing seasons.Hence diversifying to other jobs is necessary for their livelihood.The sole dependence on fishing can be a challenge to the fisherfolk.
The introduction of mechanised boats and advanced nets changed the fishery sector altogether. The recent introduction of in board engines in addition to out board engines changed the situation into a more complex one.Mechanisation has gradually led to the deterioration of the economic condition of the traditional fishermen because of the huge gap between the two types of fishing. This has also led to a gradual decrease in fish quantities as well as changed the traditional patterns of fish drying, processing as well as marketing of fish and thus has gradually led to the marginalisation of the traditional fishing communities.
From the data analysis it was found that only 24 percent of the respondents has diversified to other areas for the increase in standard of living rest of the respondents depend solely on fishing for their livelihood. Most of the respondents wish to diversify to other jobs but the lack of education and skills restrict the fisherfolk to depent on fishing.It was found that 73 percent of the respondents do not wish the future generation to go for fishing. Through this it can be said that the people in the coastal villages has realised the value of education.
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Chapter 5
Major Findings, Recommendations and Conclusions.
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Introduction
The study is tries to find out the factors, forms and magnitude of job diversification among traditional fisherfolk in coastal villages of Trivandrum District. The analysis and interpretation of the data collected was derived in the previous chapter. Here the researcher has mentioned the major findings, recommendations and conclusion based on the data analysis and interpretation and experience and insights from the field.
Major findings
Objective 1:
To study on the demographic profile of the respondents
Majority of the respondents in the study belong age below 45 years. The age group represent the most productive age in the coastal villages. All the respondents have been living in the area for more than 20 years. Hence the data is more reliable. Out of the respondents it was found that 54 percent of the respondents owned less than three cents of land. It was found that the houses were clustered together. Most of the houses lacked basic facilities. The house and the sorroundings in some of the coastal villages were found to unhygienic.This can also lead to outbreak of diseases too.
Objective 2:
To study the factors leading to job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
Through the data it was found that 95 percent of the respondents use semi mechanises mode of fishing that is with engines.So it could be said that the fisherfolk is slowly moving to mechanised mode of fishing.It was found that 76 percent of the respondents depend only on fishing and do not engage any other activities.This itself can be a challenge and can result in low standard of living among the traditional fisherfolk.19 percent of the respondents engage in activities other than fishing sometimes.
Out of the 24 percent who engage in activities other that fishing 14 percent of them engage in other jobs due to the seasonal nature of income. The alternative livelihood helps them when there is low caught.Thus diversification can help in increasing the income of the household.
79 percent of the respondents feels that advancement in technology has affected fishing.The fisherfolk face accidents in the sea and their nets get destroyed at times.The advancement in the technology has not only affected the safety of the fisherfolk but it also has been a major factor in the depletion of the resurces.
Majority of the fisherfolk believes that jobs other than fishing is necessary for survival.The entering of the modern sector capitalists has not only resulted in the depletion of the resources but also resulted in low income of the traditional fisherfolk.
It was found that majority of the respondents feels that the people who have diversified from fishing has improved their quality of life.This can be motivating factor for the fisherfolk and sometimes can help in diversification to other areas.
Most of the respondents were not attracted by the migrats.The fisherfolk shared that most of the people who have migrated engage in fishing and unorganized sector.Hence they prefer to stay in the coastal villages were they are living.
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Objective 3:
To identify the forms of job diversification among the traditional fisherfolk
From the data collected it was found that the traditional fisherfolk do not like the future generation to go for fishing.They wish to educate the children so that they get a permanent source of income.The fisherfolk had started to realise the value of education.One of the other reasons was hard labour involved in fishing.
It was found that 45 percent of the respondent’s family members had migrated to other places in search of jobs.Out of which 32 percent has migrated to places outside India.
It was found out of the 45 percent who have migrated to other places 26 percent of them work in unorganized sector and very few in organized and government sectors.
30 percent of the respondent’s family members go for work under MGNREGA and it can help to be an alternative source of income for the fisherfolk and this trend was seen from the past four years.
From the data it was found that 45 percent of the respondents wish to move from the coastal area.The concern about the future of the children was one of the reasons for this.Some believed that staying in the area could affect the behaviour of their children.
Objective 4:
To assess the magnitude of diversification
From the study it was found that job diversification exist among the traditional fisherfolk.Diversification was mainly due to seasonal nature of fishing,Unemployment and low income.The fisher folk engage in activities such as small scale business,daily labour,catering.Most of the respondents feel that jobs other than fishing is necessary for survival.Hence it could be expected that more diversification could happen in the coming years.
The dislike of the traditional fisherfolk to engage the future generation in fishing can lead more diversification.The children are sent to schools and for vocational training.
It was seen from the data that 45 percent of the respondents have family members who have migrated to other places in search of job due to low income and unemployment.
30 percent of the respondents family member goes for work under MGNREGA.The engagement in the programme could help to supplement to the income of the family and hence could be kind of deversification
Recommendations
The people in the area are not able to compete with the capitalists which has resulted in low income of the traditional fisherfolk.Promoting alternative livelihoods in fishing communities could help them to find a means to add on to their income and better standards of living
Starting of dry fish manufacturing unit and appropriate marketing strategies could help in the increase in income. Production of value added materials could help in generating income. Finding means to export these could also help the traditional fisherfolk to raise their standard of living.
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Inadequate knowledge and skills obstruct access to alternative employment among the fisherfolk.Technical training programmes could be conducted to improve their skills so that the seasonal nature of fishing do not affect the fisherfolk and they could find alternatives.
The absence of harbor was one of the major concern raised by the people of Kollamcode which resulted in migration of fisherfolk to other districts.
Conclusion
Diversification is the process by which a household increases the diversity (i.e. number) of its income generating activities (Ellis 2000).Diversification does not always mean substitution. Migration and mobility are the geographical component of diversification.Inadequate knowledge and skills obstruct access to alternative employment among the fisherfolk.Diversification should not be promoted as a remedy to revert degradation of marine fishery resources. It should not be substitutive but complementary and build on existing knowledge.Fish being a renewable resource, biologically it would mean that the rate at which the resources are harvested should be in harmony with the rate at which they multiply. Humanly it means that the principles of equity and basic need to get a high priority.
In the context of fisheries, diversification is promoted as a means for reducing dependence on the resource, making restrictive management easier and less controversial for those affected by such measuresThis often interprets diversification as job-substitution (stop fishing, do something else)rather than adding other activities to an income-portfolio. With the tendency for increasing pressure on fishery resources, it becomes ever more necessary to address in a coherent way diversification and its links with both poverty reduction and responsible fisheries.Hence it can be assumed that diversification can help the traditional fisherfolk to attain good standard of living.
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APPENDIX
TOOL OF DATA COLLECTION
“Job Diversification among Traditional Fisher-Folk:A Micro Analysis of Trivandrum”
Specific objective
To understand the socio economic background of the traditional fisher-folk in Trivandrum To identify the forms and magnitude of job diversification among traditional fisher-folk in Trivandrum To examine the factors contributing to job diversification
Demographic Profile:
Place:
1. Name of the respondent: 2. Age: 3. Sex: 1. Male 2. Female 4. Marital status: 1.Single 2.Married 3.Divorced 4.Separated 5. Income/month: 1. Less than 3000 2.Between 3000-5000 3.Above5000 6. Religion: Christian Hindu Muslim 7. Family Profile: SL.NO Name Sex Age Level of Occupation Income/month . Education 1
2
3
4
5
6
8. How long have you been living in the Coastal area? 1. Less than 5 years 2. 5-10years 3. Above 10years 9. Area of land you own?
1. Less than 3 cents 2. 3-5cents 3.Above 5 cents
I. Factors Contributing to job diversification
10. What kind of work that you are engaged in
1. Fishing 2.Coolie 3.Painting 4.Construction work
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5. Driver 6. Others …..
11. Mode of fishing:
1. Traditional 2. Semi mechanized 3. Mechanized 4.Others (specify)……
12. Do you engage in jobs other than fishing
1. Yes 2. No
13. If yes how often
1. Sometimes 2. Part time 3. Full time
14. The reason for the moving in search of other jobs
1. Seasonal nature of fishing 2.low income 3.low status 4.Debt
15.Has the technological advancement affected fishing in the area?
1. Yes 2. No
16. If yes, how
1. Modern equipments 2. Resource Depletion 3. Safety
17. Do you think that diversifying to jobs other than fishing is necessary for the survival
1. Yes 2. No
18. Do you think fishing is a low profile job
1. Yes 2. No
19. Have the people in the community who have diversified from traditional fishing in the improved their quality of life
1. Always 2.Sometimes 3.Never
20. Have the people who diversified from fishing encouraged you to quit traditional fishing
1. Yes 2.No
21. Do you think that diversifying from traditional fishing helps in faster economic growth
1. Yes 2. No
22. Are you attracted by the migrants in the your area
1. Yes 2. No
23. Do you think that there are plenty of opportunities outside other than fishing
1. Yes 2. No
24. If yes what are they
1. Starting own business 2. Daily wage work 3.Others(specify)…….. 40
25.if no reasons
1.lack of education 2.lack of interest 3.others(specify)….
III. Forms of job diversification
26. Do you like the younger generations to go for fishing
1. Yes 2.No 3.Child’s interest
27. If no give reasons
1. Due to less income 2. Low profile
3. Depletion of fish resources 4.Hard Labour 5.others…….
28. Has anyone in the family migrated to other places in search of jobs other than fishing
1. Yes 2. No
29. If yes where
1. In Trivandrum 2.Other Districts 3.In India 4. Outside India
30. Reasons for migration
1. Debt 2. Unemployment 3. Low income 4.Others (specify)…….
31. Nature of the job of migrated person
1. Government Sector 2.Private Sector 3.Organized Sector 4. Unorganized sector
32. Does anyone in the family work as
1. Tailor 2.Driver 3.Housemaid 4.Coolie 5.Others (specify)…..
33. Do you engage in work under MGNREGA?
1. Yes 2. No
34.If yes, How long have you been under MGNREGA
1. 0-2 years 2. 2-4 years 3. Above 4 years
35. Do you wish to move from coastal area
1. Yes 2. No
36. If yes give reason
1. Low income 2.Safety 3. Resource depletion
4. Health Reasons 5. Future of children
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Bibiliography
Books
1) Platteau Philippe Jean,Murikan Jose et.al,(1985),Technology Credit and Indebtedness in Marine Fishing,Hidustan Publing Coorporation
2) Rajan J.B (2002),Labour mobility in the small scale fisheries sector,Centre for Development Studies
3) Dr.Rajan J (2002), The Fishing Economy of Kerala,Sujilee Publishing House
4) Human Development Report of Fisherfolk in Kerala,Dec 2009,Department of Economics,Dr. John Mathai Centre,University of Calicut
5) Dr.SivaMurugan C,Amritha Lakshmi T (Dec 2010),Rural Develoment and migrant fishermen in Tamilnadu, Kurukshetra, Jouranal on Rural Development, Vol 59
6) D’cruz ,Titto ,Manuel,Joseph (2012),Development and coastal community: Case studies of two coastal villages in Trivandrum district,Kerala
7) Sathiadas R and Pratap K.Sangeetha (2012),Employmet Scanario and Labour Migration in Marine Fisheries , CMFRI
8) Prof. Susan Edel Lopez (2010),Impact of gulf remittance on costal aera of Thiruvananthapuram- a case study of Vettucaud ward of Trivandrum Corporation
9) R Sathidas (1990),Socio economic scenario of marine fisheries in Kerala-Status and scope of improvement
10) Ellis Frank and Allison Edwar (2004), Livelihood diversification and natural resource access, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
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11) Brugere Cecile, Holvoet Katrien & Allison H. Edward (2008),Livelihood diversification in coastal and inland fishing communities: misconceptions, evidence and implications for fisheries management
12) J. Bindu, M.A. George et. al (2010) ,Traditional Practices and Beliefs among Coastal Fisherfolk of Kerala
13) Harikumar G & Rajendran G (2007), An Over View of Kerala Fisheries –with Particular Emphasis on Aquaculture
14) Cervantes. Flucius (1965), Drop out Causes and Cures, The University of Michigan press, Pp: 1-222
15) George M. K, J Domi(2002), Residual illiteracy in a Coastal Village: Poovar village of Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala Research Programme on Local Level Development, Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram, Pp: 25- 30
16) George M.K, (2003), educational backwardness among marine fish workers of Kerala, Loyola College of social sciences, India, Pp: 193-204
17) Cruza, Titto, Manuel, Joseph(2012), Development and the coastal community: case studies of two villages in Trivandrum district, Kerala, Pp:16-20
Journals
Mathew P.T(1998) ,Mukkuva Cosmology,Loyola Journal of Social Sciences ,Vol X11,No 1
Survey reports
I. Socio economic and pastoral survey 2011a report and analysis under Latin Archdiocese of Trivandrum II. Dr. john Mary. J(2013), socio- economic and pastoral survey 2011 A report and analysis, Latin Archdiocese of Trivandrum, Pp: 43- 55)
Website
Aarti Kelkar-Khambete (2012), Traditional fisherfolk of Kerala - An article about their socio-economic organisation and the special relationship they share with the sea and the environment http://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/traditional-fisherfolk-kerala-article-about-their-socio-economic- organisation-and-special
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