as part of my Masters in Development Studies from Tata Institute of Social
Sciences, Mumbai (2010–2012). I collected data from five villages, namely,
Beguakhali, Rangabelia, Pakhiralaya, Gosaba and Masjidbari of the South 24
Parganas on various socio-economic indicators. I spoke to various experts, government officials and read the works of both the parties and came to the conclusion
that participatory development, afforestation of mangroves, regular maintenance of
the embankments and improving the infrastructure of these islands might provide
the residents comparatively a safer and more sustainable life on these islands.
1.1.2 The Objective of the Study
1. To look into problems of livelihood and the factors associated with the same.
2. To analyze the phenomenon of outmigration in relation to the vulnerability of
the region both economic and physical environment.
It was found that, increasingly, the youth are migrating from the islands in
search of better opportunities in the cities. Climate has played a significant role
in making life difficult for the people living on these islands.
3. To look into the prevalent development pattern in this unique region and inquire
into the measures adopted by the local government bodies.
1.1.3 Methodology
Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in this study. Primary data was
collected using random sampling method by the author through questionnaire
survey, covering information on different dimensions like embankment, practiced
livelihood, climate change, etc. While secondary data included a variety of literature and reports by experts on Sunderbans.
1.1.4 Limitations Experienced by the Researcher
Availability and access to government data was very poor. However, the researcher
tried to supplement them with primary and other secondary data. The paucity of
time was also a major hindrance. Access to these islands is still difficult. In the pre
monsoon and monsoon months, these islands become almost inaccessible from the
mainland. Thus the data collection could only be done in the winter months.
However, this researcher hopes to carry further research in this area in the future
and get more insights on this region.
Is There a Tomorrow?: The Story of Survival …
359
Sciences, Mumbai (2010–2012). I collected data from five villages, namely,
Beguakhali, Rangabelia, Pakhiralaya, Gosaba and Masjidbari of the South 24
Parganas on various socio-economic indicators. I spoke to various experts, government officials and read the works of both the parties and came to the conclusion
that participatory development, afforestation of mangroves, regular maintenance of
the embankments and improving the infrastructure of these islands might provide
the residents comparatively a safer and more sustainable life on these islands.
1.1.2 The Objective of the Study
1. To look into problems of livelihood and the factors associated with the same.
2. To analyze the phenomenon of outmigration in relation to the vulnerability of
the region both economic and physical environment.
It was found that, increasingly, the youth are migrating from the islands in
search of better opportunities in the cities. Climate has played a significant role
in making life difficult for the people living on these islands.
3. To look into the prevalent development pattern in this unique region and inquire
into the measures adopted by the local government bodies.
1.1.3 Methodology
Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in this study. Primary data was
collected using random sampling method by the author through questionnaire
survey, covering information on different dimensions like embankment, practiced
livelihood, climate change, etc. While secondary data included a variety of literature and reports by experts on Sunderbans.
1.1.4 Limitations Experienced by the Researcher
Availability and access to government data was very poor. However, the researcher
tried to supplement them with primary and other secondary data. The paucity of
time was also a major hindrance. Access to these islands is still difficult. In the pre
monsoon and monsoon months, these islands become almost inaccessible from the
mainland. Thus the data collection could only be done in the winter months.
However, this researcher hopes to carry further research in this area in the future
and get more insights on this region.
Is There a Tomorrow?: The Story of Survival …
359