Socio-Economic Status and Extension Participation of Marine Fishermen in Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Aim: To assess the socioeconomic status, economic motivations, and extension participation of marine fishermen in Andhra Pradesh, and to examine the roles, linkages, and perspectives of resource managers and research experts in supporting sustainable fisheries development. Study Design: A cross-sectional descriptive study Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted across all coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh—Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Bapatla, and Nellore between 2023 - 2024, involving fishermen, fisheries officials, and experts from institutions. Methodology: A comprehensive sampling design was employed to represent all stakeholder groups in Andhra Pradesh’s marine fisheries sector. Fishermen were categorized into mechanized (n = 120), motorized (n = 200), and non-motorized (n = 40) sectors to capture diverse socioeconomic conditions and practices. Additionally, 30 research experts from premier institutions Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Fishery Survey of India – Visakhapatnam (FSI), The National Institute of Fisheries Post Harvest Technology and Training NIFPHATT, Andhra University located in Visakhapatnam and C.F.Sc. in Muthukur, Nellore District further 31 fisheries officials from the Department of Fisheries were included, bringing the total sample to 421 respondents. Result: Marine fishermen in Andhra Pradesh were predominantly middle-aged (mean 46.4 years) with substantial fishing experience (26.8 years), and 60% combined fishing with other livelihood activities. Participation in extension activities was generally low, with over 90% rarely attending field days or method demonstrations, while meetings and seminars recorded slightly higher engagement (24.9%). Economic motivation was moderate (mean score 0.52 ± 0.16), reflecting both a strong profit orientation and adherence to traditional practices. Conclusion: The study highlights that marine fishermen in Andhra Pradesh have moderate economic motivation but limited engagement with extension services and weak linkages with resource managers and research experts. Low participation in capacity-building programs indicate gaps in knowledge transfer. Strengthening extension outreach, fostering trust, and promoting targeted training and digital tools are essential to enhance adoption of innovations and support sustainable fisheries development. Addressing these socioeconomic and institutional gaps can contribute to more equitable and resilient coastal livelihoods.