Land Use Change and Livelihood Transition Under Aquaculture Growth: Evidence From Nandakumar Block of West Bengal, India

NANDAN MANNA , Rabindra Nath Ray

Aquaculture, Land Use Change, Socio-economic Transformation, Livelihood Shift, Nandakumar Block, West Bengal

The Nandakumar Block of Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal, has experienced a significant transformation in land use and rural livelihoods over the past three decades, primarily driven by the rapid expansion of aquaculture. This study examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) change and its socio-economic implications using a combination of primary and secondary data sources. A household survey of 47 respondents, supplemented by field observations, provides insights into occupational shifts, income patterns, and livelihood transformations, while LULC data for the years 1991, 2001, 2011, and 2021 are analyzed to assess land conversion trends. The findings reveal that aquaculture expansion is a relatively recent phenomenon, intensifying particularly during the period 2011-2021, when large areas of agricultural and fallow land were converted into water bodies. This process reflects a transition from a traditionally agrarian economy to a market-oriented aquaculture system. The occupational structure analysis indicates a sharp decline in agriculture-based livelihoods alongside a substantial increase in aquaculture-dependent households, highlighting a fundamental restructuring of rural employment. Income analysis further demonstrates that aquaculture has emerged as the most economically rewarding activity, with average monthly household income increasing significantly compared to agriculture and other occupations. As a result, aquaculture has contributed to improved living standards, enhanced economic mobility, and diversification of rural livelihoods. However, the study also identifies critical challenges, including the reduction of agricultural land, growing dependence on market forces, and potential socio-economic inequalities. Overall, the study concludes that aquaculture has become a key driver of rural transformation in Nandakumar Block, offering substantial economic benefits while simultaneously raising concerns regarding environmental sustainability and long-term resilience. The findings underscore the need for integrated policy interventions to promote sustainable and inclusive aquaculture development.

Volume 14 Issue 4, April-2026

Pages : a859-a866