Navigating Challenges: Climate Change, Digitization, and Economic Resilience among Fisherwomen in Neelankarai, Chennai

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2024 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 11 Issue 4

Year of Publication : 2024

Authors : Turiya Uma Kalyan

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V11I4P104

How to Cite?

Turiya Uma Kalyan, "Navigating Challenges: Climate Change, Digitization, and Economic Resilience among Fisherwomen in Neelankarai, Chennai," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 11,  no. 4, pp. 37-42, 2024. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V11I4P104

Abstract:

India is the third largest player in the global fishing industry. Climate change and digitization pose significant challenges to this sector, particularly for small-scale fisherpeople in Tamil Nadu. The lack of research focusing on the fishing community in Chennai, despite Tamil Nadu’s high economic activity, highlights a gap in understanding the localized impact of these macroeconomic forces. This qualitative, phenomenological study investigates how climate change and digitization affect fisherwomen in Neelankarai. Findings from seven semi-structured interviews indicate that fisherwomen primarily sell fish for sustenance, often supplemented by other jobs, but struggle with high transportation costs and variable expenses, leading to limited savings and reliance on high-interest informal loans. Although aware of e-commerce platforms, none utilize them due to concerns about product freshness and logistical hurdles. Digital payment methods like UPI are sparingly used, typically relying on accounts held by friends or family. Climate changes such as reduced fish yields and unpredictable rainfall exacerbate economic vulnerability among these women. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions: improving access to affordable loans, enhancing digital literacy, and developing infrastructure for online sales to bolster the socioeconomic wellbeing of Chennai’s fishing community.

Keywords:

Climate change, E-commerce, Fishing, Tamil Nadu, UPI

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