Study on the Work Culture & Socio-economic Conditions of the Fishing Community working as Unorganised Labourers in Coastal Mangaluru, Karnataka

Abstract

Labour is the prime contributor for the industrial growth and economic development of a country. It is known to be the segment which contributes significantly to the GDP of the Nation. Work is generally known to be the physical or mental engagement of the people in any economically productive activity for their livelihood. The Indian economy is characterized by the existence of a vast majority of employment in the unorganised sectors. Its dominance in the employment front is such that more than 90 per cent of the total workforce belongs to the informal economy. Planned Economic Development in the country can be achieved by eliminating poverty through employment and income generation. In this regard, Fisheries sector plays an important role in the developing countries of the world. The fisheries contribution to the Indian economy has enriched after the introduction of advanced technology to increase the yield per unit area of water attracting more foreign exchange. The problems of poverty and malnutrition faced in coastal areas can be simultaneously met through, planned utilization of available local resources and encouraging participation of the local people in the fishing occupation. Fisher folk are those people who engage in fishing activities. They are the victims of economic oppression and lives under social prejudices with low social status. There is a need to undertake systematic study on the life of the fishermen to seek solutions to their existing problems and to improve their overall status. This study will review into the work life of fisher folks in Thota Bengre village belonging to Mangaluru taluk in Karnataka State.