Contribution of NTFPs in the Livelihood of Mangrove Forest Dwellers of Sundarban

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) contribute significantly to the livelihoods of Sundarbans' mangrove forest dwellers, accounting for nearly 79% of their annual income. The study, conducted across four communities in Bally II, Bijoynagar, Dulki, and Hamiltanabad, identified key NTFPs such as firewood, prawn, fish, crab, honey, and bee wax, collected under high-risk conditions from man-eating tigers. It also revealed substantial livelihood vulnerability among the local population, with limited government support. The research highlights the need for sustainable livelihood frameworks that integrate NTFP collection to balance biodiversity conservation and community needs.

Singh, A., Bhattacharya, P., Vyas, P., & Roy, S. (2010). Contribution of NTFPs in the Livelihood of Mangrove Forest Dwellers of Sundarban. Journal of Human Ecology, 29(3), 191–200. https://doi.org/10.1080/09709274.2010.11906263