Livelihood, conflict and tourism: An assessment of livelihood impact in Sundarbans, West Bengal

Sundarbans delta is renowned as the largest mangrove forest reserve in the world with distinct species of wild flora and fauna. It acts as a source of livelihood for several communities residing in the vicinity. The indigenous plants, extraction of honey and catching fish from rivers, lakes and rivulets have good economic value in surroundings markets. The local community were highly attached to their land, air, water, animals and plants of the area which have simultaneously became part of their culture and tradition over the years. The aim of the study is to identify and analyse the community's perception about Sundarbans and impacts on their livelihood along with the threat faced by Sundarbans. The study is based on primary survey following secondary data for data collection while descriptive and ethnographic methods were used to get the desired outcome. Post discussion, it was concluded that apart from human and animal conflict, the community is also facing livelihood conflict as the shift has registered over the years. The water level has continued to rise and submerge much of the areas of Sundarbans. Tourism is highly appreciated, but unregulated and irresponsible tourists are the major concern for wild floral and faunal species in Sundarbans ecosystem. The people living there don't have capacity to do other work except cultivation and fishing. The area specific approach and regional plan for the region is the need of hour as the region is suffering from multiple problems threat to tiger conservation, increased salinity of the water and erosion of embankment.