Assessment of the livelihood status of fish retailer at new market in Patuakhali district

To determine the socioeconomic condition of fish retailers a study was undertaken from August to October 2015 in New Market, Patuakhali. It was found that most of the retailers were in the age range 35 to 44 years (33.34%), 55 years (3.33%), represented by 90% Muslim and Hindu 10%. The family size usually consisted of 5-6 members. Among them, 76.69% were literate and 23.31% were illiterate. Around 53.28% used wood & tin house, 9.99% lived in other type of house. Majority portion (43.29%) used paka toilet, where 33.3% had no sanitary toilet facilities. About 84% of the retailers have electricity facilities while 17%, 43.29%, 72% and 56.61% have refrigerator, agricultural land, good communication system and television respectively. Per day average income was around BDT. 300-400. To develop their socio-economic condition and sustainable livelihood status, more institutional, organizational and technical supports needs to be carried.