Life and Livelihood of Women in the Sundarbans: A Survey

Abstract

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove delta, sustains millions whose livelihoods depend on its fragile ecosystem. Women form the backbone of household and community economies, yet their roles often remain undervalued and unrecognized. This study examines the socio-economic conditions, livelihood patterns, and adaptive strategies of women in the Indian Sundarbans. Based on field surveys conducted across selected blocks of South 24 Parganas, supported by secondary sources, the research explores women’s participation in agriculture, aquaculture, forest-based occupations, and cottage industries. The findings highlight significant vulnerabilities arising from climate-induced hazards, ecological degradation, gendered inequalities, and inadequate institutional support. At the same time, women demonstrate remarkable resilience through diversified livelihoods, self-help groups, traditional ecological knowledge, and collective adaptation. The study argues that enhancing women’s access to education, healthcare, financial resources, and decision-making spaces is crucial for advancing gender equity and ecological sustainability in the Sundarbans.