Livelihood Options for Vulnerable Ecosystems Options for Vulnerable Ecosystems 3 | P a g e 1. GEOGRAPHIC CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND Bangladesh has weird geophysical characteristics and

Livelihood Options for Vulnerable Ecosystems

Livelihood Options for Vulnerable Ecosystems 2 | P a g e

Livelihood Options for Vulnerable Ecosystems Year of Publication: 2013 Acknowledgement This report, prepared by Capacity Development and Programme Management Division of Unnayan Onneshan, is an output Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainable Livelihood for Vulnerable Ecosystems (RESOLVE) programme. RESOLVE is operating its activities in a collaborative framework of three local implementing partners, Gana Unnayan Kendra (GUK) in Gaibandha, Gono Kalyan Shangstha (GKS) in Sirajganj and Shariatpur Development Society (SDS) in Shariatpur, and one technical partner, Unnayan Onneshan (UO). The entire program is implementing by the financial assistance of Oxfam Novib. The report is prepared under the guidance of Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir. The team comprises Swadhin Ray and A. Z. M. Saleh. Special thanks to Shahid Md. Adnan for his kind support for the completion of this research work. The data are collected from three districts in Bangladesh, namely Gaibandha, Sirajganj and Shariatpur. The report acknowledges, with gratitude, of efforts provided in collecting data, by the staff of GUK, GKS and SDS.

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1. GEOGRAPHIC CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND

Bangladesh has weird geophysical characteristics and considered one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world. The physiography of Bangladesh is characterized by two distinctive features: a broad deltaic plain subject to frequent flooding, and a small hilly region crossed by swiftly flowing rivers. The country has an area of 144,000 square kilometers and extends 820 kilometers from north to south and 600 kilometers from east to west. About 80 percent of the total land is low-lying and composed by alluvial plain known as Gangetic plain. Bangladesh possess tropical monsoon climate characterized by wide seasonal variations in rainfall, high temperatures, and high humidity. Regional climatic differences within the country are not considerable. Three wide seasons are generally found here: firstly, a hot, muggy summer from March to June; secondly, a hot, humid and rainy monsoon season from June to November and thirdly, a warm-hot, dry winter from December to February. Every year, heavy rainfall has been causing flood in Bangladesh. Except the relatively dry western region of Rajshahi, where the annual rainfall is about 1,600 mm (63.0 in), most parts of the country receive at least 2,300 mm (90.6 in) of rainfall per year1. Because of its location just in the south of the foothills of the Himalayas, where monsoon winds turn in west and northwest, the region of Sylhet in the northeastern Bangladesh receives the greatest average precipitation. About 80 percent rainfalls of Bangladesh occurs in the monsoon (from June to November). During this time, heavy rainfall in the Ganges Brahmaputra and Jamuna basin receive huge water. Rain water in upstream of Himalayan range also contributes to it as ‗burden‘ resulted as ‗overflow‘ of the rivers. Natural calamities, such as floods, tropical cyclones, tornadoes, and tidal bores caused by flood tides rushing

1 Available at http://www.mongabay.com/reference/country_studies/bangladesh/GEOGRAPHY.html

up estuaries—ravage the country, particularly the coastal belt almost every year. Moreover, geographical location has made Bangladesh as the most vulnerable countries to the consequences of climate change. With the above context, shocks of climate change have introduced new identity of the land as the most climate vulnerable countries in the world. Climate change and its adverse impact in developing country like Bangladesh however, is a major challenge for agriculture, food security and rural livelihoods for the people, more specifically for the poor. Agriculture is the most vulnerable sector to climate change due to its high dependency on climate and weather whereas people involved in agriculture tend to be poorer compared to the urban residents (Dev, 2011). In Bangladesh, about 80 percent of the population is directly or indirectly related to agriculture as a source of livelihood. In this context, people of Bangladesh can be considered in the paramount vulnerability in terms of agriculture as well as their livelihoods. Considering the situation and geographic context, a new partnership based initiatives have been introduced as Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainable Livelihoods for Vulnerable Ecosystems (RESOLVE) programme. It has been working in three top climate vulnerable districts in Bangladesh namely Gaibandha, Sirajganj and Shariatpur and have already completed two-year experimental pilot phase. Thus, implementing new programme in these areas, concentrate much more emphasize on the hardcore people live in hard to reach areas, mostly exposed as climate vulnerable. The programme has been designed to achieve the goal of making communities more resilient to climate shocks; ensuring food security through a combination of intervention strategies: direct poverty reduction through practicing adaptive agriculture techniques and technologies; diversifying livelihoods (on-farm, off-farm and non-farm) for the rural poor.


2. VULNERABILITY OF THE AREAS

Bangladesh has already been established as one of the major climate vulnerable countries in the world as mentioned previously. It has been experiencing frequent natural disasters which cause loss of lives, damage to infrastructure and economic assets, and adverse impacts on lives and livelihoods, especially to the poor. The Intergovernmental panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predicts that, the global temperature will rise between 1.8o C and 4.1o C by the last decades of 21 century. For south Asia, the 4th IPCC report envisages that, monsoon rainfall will increase, resulting in higher flows during the monsoon season in the rivers which flow into Bangladesh (MoEF, 2009). Considering the context, Bangladesh is the most vulnerable country and in recent years, the land has already faced the adverse impact of climate change (e.g. concurrent flood, drought, salinity intrusion, riverbank erosion etc). There is growing evidence that, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards and hence, the level and patterns of often inter-related risks are exacerbating the levels of vulnerability for poor and excluded people (Davies, 2009). This is in turn poses multiple threats to livelihood activities as well as development of the hardcore poor in Bangladesh. The present study area- Gaibandha, Sirajganj and Shariatpur have been selected on the basis of accentuating climate vulnerability. Gaibandha district is located in the northern Bangladesh, with an area of 2179.27 sq km, is bounded by Kurigram and Rangpur districts on the north, Bogra district on the south, Jamalpur and Kurigram districts on the east, Dinajpur and Rangpur districts on the west (Banglapedia, 2012). The district is situated in the bank of Brahmaputra river. Sundarganj upazila of this district is one of the most vulnerable upazila where concurrent flood, drought and riverbank erosion are common phenomena. The main rivers of the upazila are Tista, Brahmaputra and Ghaghat which cause flood during the monsoon as overflow. On

account of lack of rainwater over a long period of time, drought mainly occurs in the land and around 27.56 percent of the total land of Sundarganj experiences drought (Molla, et al, 2011). On the other hand, due to char2 land areas and sandy soil nature, most of the land has been found fallow during the peak harvest period. Thus, drought hampers to the livelihood of the people especially on agricultural production. Flood and riverbank erosion are also great threats to the area. In the monsoon period, overflow of the Brahmaputra river and river bank erosion causes inundation almost every year. These damages have a great negative impact on agriculture and the people, involved with single livelihood option (generally farmers). Sirajganj is another vulnerable district on this occasion. Flood, drought and riverbank erosion are the main natural disasters there. Kazipur and Tarash, the two upazilas of Sirajganj have been selected for the present programme. These upazilas are geographically flood stricken. The mighty Jamuna river flows beside the districts hence, every year in monsoon period huge water from upper catchment results over flow and inundate almost all the land, damaging agricultural crops. Flood causes variability of climatic components particularly by increasing both temperature and rainfall. A study conducted by Unnayan Onneshan based on climatic data assessment for 33 years (1976-2008) found that, in Sirajganj, monthly average maximum and minimum temperature for the period of May to December increased by 0.018oC and 0.02oC per year respectively and yearly average maximum and minimum temperature increased in each year by 0.02oC and 0.01oC respectively (Basak, 2011). Most areas of Kazipur upazila included in Char land and thus, river water easily inundate the home, agricultural land and crops. Drought in summer has become another concern in this area which is the result of increasing annual temperature. The same study (Basak, 2011) exposed that, yearly average maximum and minimum temperature increased in each year

2 Mainly bar island found in the middle stage of a river


by 0.02oC and 0.01oC respectively. Besides drought and flood, gigantic riverbank erosion has also put a threat in this area. Displacement of settlement and landlines of poor are the main consequences of riverbank erosion related with both drought and flood. The study however, has found that river erosion is closely related to peak discharge3. On the other hand, riverbank erosion occurs when heavy upper stream flow moves to the downstream by the force of gravity and happened massively during the flood period. These climatic change oriented impact crates threats on agriculture as well as livelihood of the people of these areas. Shariatpur, the third district of the study is located in the southern part of Bangladesh. Gosairhat upazila of Shariatpur is under the present programme activities. The total area of Gosairhat is 177.86 square km and located in the western bank of Meghna river. Owing to geographical context, the coastal belt is the most vulnerable to climate change as sea level is rising day by day at an alarming rate. In Shariatpur, mean tidal range has increased much more in the recent years (FGD survey, 2013). Thus, salinity concentration in soil has become the major threat for agriculture of this area. A study conducted by UO at Shariatpur has been estimated for salinity concentration of surface water 1.3dS/m which is 0.4 dS/m higher than the earlier estimation by ICZMP in 2003 (Seal and Baten, 2012). If salinity increases over the year at this rate, the study predicted that the salinity level might be close to 2.3 dS/m at the end of 2030 which will hamper the agricultural production as well as livelihoods adversely.

3. RATIONALE Bangladesh economy is mainly based on agriculture whereas the agricultural pattern is basically traditional. In addition, climate change impacts have been adding an adverse effect on the livelihood status for the marginal

3 This study was conducted by CEGIS (Centre for Environmental and Geographical Information Services) under the CLASIC project. For further details http://www.cegisbd.com/climate_div.htm

community of Bangladesh. According to World Bank (2010), developing countries like Bangladesh have been facing 75-80 percent potential damage for climate change. Regarding this, urgent supports to prepare the people for drought, floods, and rising sea levels are required. Moreover, a unique and comprehensive approach to mitigate the serious effect of poverty, unemployment, food security along with the impact of climate change is welcomed as well. Under these circumstances, new IGAs models of livelihood diversification have been implemented successfully in the last pilot phase under the RESOLVE programme. Now to establish each model is important as evidence based through assessing the impacts on RHs. All the models in the programme have well accepted by the RHs as well as the community people. So, to examine how the models are helpful for the RHs in term of changing socio-economic condition is essential. On the other hand, to extend the programme, concrete evidence in economic feasibility and impact on livelihoods is prerequisite. Therefore, the study will find out the changing status of the RHs during the pilot phase. Without integrating women into the development process, women empowerment is not possible. It is noticeable that entrepreneurship development and empowerment are complementary to each other (Nawaz, 2009). Involving women in the programme was one of the main objectives of this programme. Hence, the study intends to draw out the changes occurred in the lives of women in the study areas. Considering women as important beneficiaries of the model, the study aims to disclose different aspects of women‘s life, particularly their decision making power within the household, self dependency, social empowerment, economic empowerment and social mobility. Constraints factors, arose during the implementing phase will expose so that, in further expansion of the programme these limitations may be able to minimize.


4. STUDY AREA Present study areas included three districts of Bangladesh-Gaibandha, Sirajganj and Shariatpur. The study conducted on three selected upazilas namely Sundarganj of Gaibandha district, Kazipur and Tarash of Sirajganj district and Gosairhat of Shariatpur district. Gaibandha is located in the northern

area, Sirajgonj is in centre and Shariatpur is in the southern region of Bangladesh. These upazilas have been selected based upon climate vulnerability as well as remoteness due to char land and riverine topography. Different natural disaster like flood, riverbank erosion, drought, water logging and salinity intrusion are common phenomena in these areas.

Figure 1: Map of the study area

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LEGENDS

GAIBANDHA

SHARIATPUR

SIRAJGANJ

STUDY AREA

80 0 80 160 Kilometers

Sundarganj upazila is circumscribed by Tista and Brahmaputra river in the northern and eastern side. About 84.22 percent people are related to agriculture (Banglapedia, 2012). Second one is Kazipur and Tarash upazilas, bounded by the mighty river Jamuna in the eastern side. Both the upazilas are mostly flood stricken and in each and every year these land are affected by food resulting the over flow of the surrounded river with heavy rainfall in the upper stream. Here, most of the lands are fragmented as char and detached

from the mainland. Transportation condition is very poor and mostly depends upon single modal. On the other hand, Gosairhat, upazila of Shariatpur district are located in the southern region of the country. Seasonal inundation and water logging are as usual in the area. With seasonal inundation, salinity intrusion is the main concern of this area. In rainy season, all area becomes flooded and boat is the only medium of transportation in that time.


5. RESEARCH METHODS The present study is based on both primary and secondary data. Secondary data sources are the various literatures (e.g. report, journal articles, book, documents etc.) regarding the study. The primary data includes mainly field data from field survey. Primary data have been collected by using different data collection method like-Questionnaire survey, Focus Group Discussion (FGD), informal interview. RESOLVE monthly livelihood survey compiled data base have also been incorporated to measure the impact of the

models in different parameters. A total of 48 right holder‘s (24 from livelihood diversification models and 24 from income generation models from small scale entrepreneurship) information has been collected for the study. Cost benefit analysis has been assessed based on the information from the right holder‘s as well local implementing partners. For cost benefit analysis of different models under the livelihood diversification activities the following formula has been adopted.

For the IGAs models under small scale entrepreneurship, like Bamboo made handicraft, Hogla mat preparation and Blanket making, cost benefit have been analysed based on market price per unit as well raw material cost. Assessing of livelihood status, RESOLVE monthly database on Livelihood

Development Index (LDI) has been incorporated. Expenditure data has been calculated based on the year and made a comparison between the years, 2011 and 2012. For the case stories, information has been used from informal interview and direct field observation.

Figure 2: Schematic flow chart of the research methodology

Problem Identification Review of literature Field survey and observation

Data Collection

Partner‘s comments Incorporation

Data Incorporation

Final report Presentation

Primary data Sources Secondary data Sources

Here, R= (Cost of accounting value), i=12% (12 percent determined as per national rate of

interest discount), t= Time (time determined for 0.5 years or Six month).

Cost based on present value= R × (1+i)t


Livelihood or occupational diversification has two key components which are usually related:

Multiplicity: Multiple livelihoods (jobs, incomes etc.) requiring several part-time, concurrent activities.

Change, Transformation or Adaptation: Usually from an essentially subsistence agricultural sector to non subsistence, non- agricultural sectors, part of which we might call the rural non -farm economy (RNFE).

Source: Start & Johnson, 2001

6. LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION APPROACH

The diversification of livelihood specifically, rural diversification has become the subject of a growing amount of conceptual and policy based research in the present time (Dev et al, 2002). Livelihood diversification and income generation has been considered as an ultimate challenge for the rural marginal people for a long time. Livelihood diversification refers to the attempts by individuals and households to find new ways to raise incomes and reduce environmental risk, which differ sharply by the degree of freedom of choice (to diversify or not), and the reversibility of the outcome (Hussein and Nelson, 2000). In fact, livelihood diversification is the approach which includes both on-farm and off-farm activities undertaken for income generation besides the main household‘s traditional agricultural activities. Another definition (Warren, 2002) mentioned that, livelihood

diversification occurred as a result of an increased importance of off-farm wage labour in the household livelihood portfolio or through the development of new forms of on-farm/on-site production of non-conventional

marketable commodities. Inherent function of the approach implies sustainable development of economical development through strengthening rural or marginal community.

Figure 3: Overview of the sustainable Livelihood framework

Source: Carney, 1998

The livelihood diversification may take place when rural producers change the composition of agricultural products they produce in terms of on-farm or off-farm activities. More recently, the approach has been used as new paradigmatic way to improve climatic vulnerability as well as climate adaptive measure for making vulnerable communities more resilience. Livelihood diversification however, has been adopted as holistic approach to move forward a sustainable livelihood for a vulnerable ecosystem (Figure

3). In this regard, the present IGAs livelihood options (Sheep and Chick Rearing, Blanket making, Bamboo and Hogla handicrafts ) have been put into action for strengthening and enhancing the community resiliency of rural people of char lands as to adapt the adverse impact of climatic shocks (e.g. concurrent flood, drought, riverbank erosion, cold wave etc.) and move towards a sustainable livelihood.


7. OVERVIEW OF THE DIVERSIFIED LIVELIHOOD OPTIONS

In the RESOLVE programme, different livelihood options on IGAs have been adopted under two broad categories one: Livelihood diversification and two: Small scale entrepreneurship. Considering socio-economic and geophysical context, these

livelihood approaches have been implementing in the three selected areas. Sheep and chick rearing models are practicing under livelihood diversification where Blanket making, Bamboo made handicrafts and Hogla mat making models are being practiced under the Small scale entrepreneurship. Over view of these various livelihood options are adopted here:

7.1 Sheep Rearing

Sheep rearing model is a new livelihood options in the RESOLVE programme. Through the programme, a total of (24) twenty four right holders (12 from Gaibandha and 12 from Sirajganj) have been selected for the model. Each and every member has been given 6 sheep. Core focusing of the livestock based model is to diversify livelihood options for the climate vulnerable victims, emphasising on women headed households. Sheep has been selected rather than other cattle as they can tolerate both high temperature and rainfall. Here, the targeted right holders are mainly women headed and most of them are landless. These sheep has

been given by the local implementing partner GUK at Gaibandha and GKS at Sirajganj.

Figure 4: Sheep rearing at Gaibandha

7.2 Chick Rearing

Chick rearing model is the second livelihood option in the RESOLVE. Chick rearing model has been implementing at Sirajganj supported by local implementing partner GKS. Though chick rearing is not new for the community but, existing practice is based on traditional pattern as well as very few in number. So, the present implementing model, in this regard is a little bit different from previous practice. Here, Chick rearing model has been taken as role model to the diversification of livelihood for the selected right holders by supporting technical assistance as well as providing training facilities. The model, however, has been introduced to make the selected right holders resilient to the adverse shocks of climate change. Local implementing partner GKS has provided chickens for 12 right holders in the study area. Not only this, they but also

provided training, and monitoring the success of the model.

Figure 5: Chick rearing at Sirajganj


7.3 Bamboo Made Handicrafts Bamboo made handicrafts model has been practicing at Gosairhat upazila of Shariatpur district. The selected right holders are making bamboo handicrafts by using locally available raw materials-, bamboo. They are making different types of Bamboo made handicraft like-Baskets, Chalon, Dhola, Dhama, Kochui, Chakdala etc. These products are helpful for everyday household activities with a huge market demand.

Figure 6: Bamboo handicrafts making at Shariatpur

Bamboo made products is generally sold in the local markets known as Hat4. Haturiarhat is the popular and most common trading centre to gather for selling and buying local products. At the initial stage, local implementing partner SDS has provided loan as financial support to buy ‗Bamboo‘, the main raw material for the model.

7.4 Hogla mat Production The model, Hogla mat production has also been implementing at Gosairhat upazila of Shariatpur District. Locally available Hogla leaves are the main raw material for this model. Primarily SDS has selected some women right holders to provide financial loan to generate the entrepreneurship and empowering themselves.

4 Hat is the local trading centre in Bangladesh. It sits on weekends or any particular day in a week.

Figure 7: Bamboo handicrafts making at Shariatpur

7.5 Blanket Making Blanket making entrepreneurship is an innovative model that has been practicing at Kazipur upazila in Sirajganj district. In this model, women are given trainings on how to prepare blanket using the sewing machine. Local implementing partner GKS, in Sirajgonj, provides loan to carry out the entrepreneurship. For the pilot phase, they have selected some women, the most vulnerable regarding family dependency, earning and widow. For making a blanket, garments waste cloths normally known as Jhut is used as raw material. In pilot phase, both GKS has provided the Jhut and a sewing machine for every right holder under this programme.

Figure 8: Blanket making entrepreneur at

Sirajganj


8. MEASURING THE IMPACT Measuring the impact of the implemented models regarding the livelihood diversification and small scale entrepreneurship, five key socio-economic parameters have been selected. These include: Economic feasibility, Livelihood status, Food security, Women empowerment and successful adaptation of climate change impact. For cost benefit

analysis, present value is calculated based on accounting value. In convenience to analysis and data presentation, all the models have been divided comprising two categories. One is livestock based (Sheep and Chick rearing) and other is based on Small Scale Entrepreneurship (Bamboo handicrafts, Hogla mat making and Blanket making).

8.1 Livelihood Options: Animal Husbandry ( Sheep and Chick Rearing)

8.1.1 Economic Feasibility Economic feasibly of the two models have been assessed through the cost benefit

analysis of the selected right holders. Two selected right holders from two different models (Sheep and Chick rearing) are Jahanara Begum at Gaibandha for Sheep rearing and Sahela Begum at Sirajganj for Chick rearing.

Table 1: Cost benefit analysis of sheep rearing

*Here value determined in BDT. Data source: Field survey, 2012 *Cost based on present value= R × (1+i)t

Here, R= 12900(Cost of accounting value), i=12% (12 percent determined as per national rate of interest discount), t= Time .5 years or Six month. Cost benefit of Sheep rearing is based on the right

holder, Jahanara Begum at Gaibandha. The result of the cost benefit analysis shows that net

profit based on accounting value is Tk. 400 where net profit/loss based on present value is Tk. 352, indicating this model as economically profitable. It is an assessment based on six month and initial phase which will find out the actual figure of the model.

Category of benefits

Benefits in BDT

Costs category

Cost based on accounting

value

Cost based on present value (i=12

%)

Net profit/loss based on

accounting value

Net Profit/loss based on present value

Selling of Sheep (2) 2800

Purchasing of sheep (5)

9000 -

400 (Profit)

352 (Profit)

Existing sheep (7) 10500

Shade preparation

3000 -

Cost of food 500 -

Preventive measures from

disease 400 -

Total 13300 12900 13652


Table 2: Cost benefit analysis of chick rearing Category of

benefits Benefits in BDT

Costs category

Cost based on

accounting value

Cost based on present value (i=12

%)

Net profit/loss based on

accounting value

Net Profit/loss based on

present value

Self consumption

2500 Purchasing

of chick 2000 -

6650 (Profit)

6213 (Profit)

Selling of Chick

10500 Shade

preparation 3000 -

Distribution with neighbors

150 Cost of

food 2000 -

Selling of eggs

1000

Preventive measures

from disease

500 -

Total 14150 7500 7937

*Here value determined in BDT. Data source: Field survey, 2012 *Cost based on present value= R × (1+i)t

Here, R= 7500(Cost of accounting value), i=12% (12 percent determined as per national rate of interest discount), t= Time .5 years or Six month. Cost benefit analysis of chick rearing is based on right holder, Sahela Begum at Sirajganj. This result of cost benefit analysis shows that,

net profit based on accounting value is Tk.6650 where net profit/loss based on present value is Tk.6213 which indicates a profitable practice. In case of Chick rearing, here, six month is enough to assess. Hence, the result depicts the positive figure to practice the livelihood option.

8.1.2 Opportunity Cost

Due to approximate geographical location and socio economic context opportunity, cost for sheep and chick rearing have been determined in single category. Opportunity cost for the Sheep rearing has been found into three categories. One is working opportunity as wage labour in harvesting field where the profit is 1000 Tk. during the same time of implemented model. One the other hand, making Nakshi katha5 is the second alternative opportunity for the women RHs under the programme. According to the information given by the women RHs as well as the community members, a woman can make 20 Katha within six months. In this context, she can earn Tk. 6000 by selling per piece at Tk. 300. The third but pinnacle opportunity is the wage labour and total income is found Tk. 7500 in the same duration.

5 A kind of decorated blanket popularly known as Nokshi Katha in Bangladesh

Table 3: Opportunity cost analysis by showing the best alternative opportunity

Wage labour in harvesting field

( working to others field to collect harvested crops)

Per day labor charge = Tk. 50. (depend on crop category) Maximum working day=

20/30 days Total income= Tk. 1000 in an

average

Making Nakshi katha

Charge per Nakshi katha = Tk.300

Maximum production =20 Pc.

Total income= Tk.6000

Wage labour (regular) Per day labor charge = Tk.150

Maximum working day =50 days/Two months Total income= Tk.7500

Source: Field survey, 2013


Case Story Box 1 Name of the Right Holder: Mrs. Nazma Begum Age: 35

Mrs. Nazma Begum, one of the beneficiaries of Sheep rearing lives at Changmari village in Sreepur union, Sundarganj, Gaibandha. Her husband Safi Mia is a day labour in brick kiln who remain outside the house mostly in a year. They have two children. Before involved in the programme, they had to live from hand to mouth. At present, Nazma is happy to get benefit through the Sheep rearing model. Six (6) months ago, she got a total of 5 sheep from GUK. During this time, she also got another 3 lambs. In past, most of the family expenditure has been covered by her husband income. Now, she can contribute to her family besides her husband‘s income. By selling sheep, she has bought a goat too. ―In past, my children could not go to school because we do not give them school book and other educational equipments. But they can go now‖ said Nazma with a happy face. She thought ―practicing the model rural women like her can change their livelihood‖

Case Story Box 2 Name of the Right Holder: Mrs. Shohagi Begum Age: 65

Mrs. Shohagi Begum is a resident of Bishurigacha village in Khasrajbari union under Kazipur upazila, Sirajganj. Her husband died when she was so young. After her marriage, she now lives in a small cottage with her only daughter. Involving with the RESOLVE‘s chick rearing model, Shohagi has got 6 chickens. She said “I have no earning person in my family. I live single and these chickens are my source of earning and livelihood”. Visiting her home, it was found that, at present, she has got 22 chickens. At the last six months, she has bought at least 18 hens and cocks. Shohagi, popularly famous as Shohagi nani (grandmother Shohagi is living in peace and happy now becoming a beneficiary of the chick rearing model.

8.1.3 Livelihood Status The most important goal and achievement from the models is diversification of livelihood of the selected poor right holders. Before practicing the model, these people were totally dependent on single livelihood centered with traditional agriculture. After involving the models, these right holders are getting extra benefit besides their traditional livelihood. Livelihood status regarding the present study based on four parameters. These are expenditure on clothing, housing, health and education. The status of the RHs has witnessed slow but significant change in these parameters in the last two years.

8.1.4 Food Security Status Income generation and food security has a direct relation. The models are playing significant role in context of food security, one of the fundamental objectives of the RESOLVE programme. By visiting two districts of the study area, it is found that right holders under the models can take three times food every day which was quite difficult before involving with the models. Most of the women right holders of RESOLVE are being treated as socially restricted to work outside according to traditional culture. After being involved in the sheep and chick rearing models besides normal day activities (generally household chores) the women are getting extra benefit and they are now able to intake more nutrition than before. The comparative nutritional intake among the RHs in 2011 and 2012 has been shown here (Figure 9). Total nutritional intake in the second year of the pilot phase (2012) is higher than previous year 2011. In Bangladesh, according to nutritional


measurement rule6 the nutritional status has improved much more during this short time.

Figure 9: Nutritional status among the right holders

Source: Livelihood Development Index (LDI) database, RESOLVE

8.1.5 Empowerment of Rural Women Empowering the rural women was one of the fundamental issues in the RESOLVE programme. Women right holders are however, the most vulnerable and emphasized target group in the models. They are now able to contribute their family by practicing the models (Case story box 1). According to the field study, women right holders are now more influential person and playing active decision making role with their husband. About 67 percent women respondents thought themselves as self dependent now in their family (Table 4). One the other hand, 25 percent of the women right holders are partially dependent on their husband, whereas 8 percent respondents have been found having no comments. Table 4: Dependency level of women among

the right holders Dependency feature Frequency Percentage

Self dependent 16 67 Partial dependent on

husband 6 25

Totally dependent on husband

0 0

No comments 2 8 Grand total 24 100


6 According to the national statistics, <=2122 kcal, <=1805 kcal and <=1600 K. cal per capita per day are considered for absolute, hardcore and ultra poverty respectively

In the same questionnaire, about18 respondents out of 24 responded that they can play active role in family decision making and their percentages are 75 whereas 4 respondents do not play any role and 2 of them have no comments regarding the issue (Table 5).

Table 5: Family decision making among the

right holders Category feature Frequency Percentage

Can play active role 18 75 No role 4 17

No comments 2 8 Grand total 24 100


8.1.5 Moving towards Resilience The models are primarily designed to set in climate vulnerable areas to make community more resilient with adverse impact of climate change. So, after successful competition of pilot phase, it is now important to find out the application of the models in the context of climatic shocks absorption. About 59 percent right holders have positive attitude on the practicing model as climate smart (Table 6). On the other hand, 33 percent of respondents have been found with positive response in the season basis (especially for the rainy season). The study areas of the two models (Sheep and Chick rearing) are in Gaibandha and Sirajganj which are located besides the mighty river Jamuna mentioned earlier. So, in rainy season, these land areas almost inundate every year. For this reason, the Sheep and Chick rearing models have been implemented here as they can tolerate heavy rainfall as well as temperature. One the other hand, Sheep and Chick can be reared in small pieces of land mainly in the homestead areas.

Table 6: Climate resiliency of the models Respondent Feature Frequency Percentage Positive for Climate

adaptation 14 59

Positive but seasonal 8 33 No adaptive impacts 1 4

No Comments 1 4



Case Story Box 3 Right Holder: Md. Abdul Mannan Age: 52

Md. Abdul Mannan lives Pachkathi village of Haturia union under Gosairhat upazila, Shariatpur. Mannan is a beneficiary of RESOLVE program under small scale entrepreneurship. Just one year ago, Mannan had no earning scope and he was leading a miserable life with 6 family members. With the help of RESOLVE, he is now in a sound economic position by making Bamboo made handicrafts as well as selling them in the local Haturiar Hat and Puran Miar Hat. ―I was at a loss without any work and thinking all the day how to survive. This program opens a new door for me. Now, I can easily make different bamboo staffs and sell them in the local market with a good profit. My wife and children also help me in this regard‟‟. Mannan said. „This bamboo made staffs have good demand in the rural areas for agricultural purposes as well as in the urban areas for various homestead uses. I want the opportunity for spreading these staffs to the urban areas for more profit ‗-he added.

8.2 Livelihood Options: Small Scale Entrepreneurship (Bamboo Made Handicrafts, Hogla Mat Production and

Blanket Making)

8.2.1 Economic Feasibility Economic feasibility of the Bamboo made products, Hogla mat production and Blanket Making models have been assessed through input and output cost based on cost benefit analysis for particular period. The assessment of bamboo made handicrafts is based on the right holder, Md. Manan of Gosairhat, Shariatpur. Here, cost benefit is determined based on one week‘s working input cost and the selling price of the produced handicrafts. The result of cost benefit of bamboo made handicrafts shows that a RH can gain net profit Tk. 800 in a week. As the production cost is found Tk. 700, it represents that the model is economically feasible for the RHs.

Table 7: Cost benefit analysis of Bamboo made handicrafts making model

Category of Benefits

Benefits in Tk.

Costs category ( Utilizing three Bamboos)

Costs in Tk.

Net profit/loss value In Tk.

Selling of Bamboo made handicrafts* (10)

1500 Purchasing of Bamboo (2) 400 1500-700=800

(Profit)

Working labor cost (based on working hours)

300

Total 1500 700 800

Source: Field Survey, 2012 * Product price assumed as Tk. 150 each based on average of 10 different types of handicrafts

Table 8: Cost benefit analysis of hogla mat production model

Category of Benefits

Benefits in Tk.

Costs category (Utilizing three Bamboos)

Costs in Tk.

Net profit/loss value Tk.

Selling of Hogla mats (10)

500 Purchasing of Hogla leaves

( 5 bundle costing Tk each of 20) 100

500-300=200 (Profit)

Working labor cost (based on working hours)

200

Total 500 300 200 Source: Field Survey, 2012

This assessment is carried out on the right holder, Mrs. Shefali Rani of Gosairhat,

Shariatpur. Here, cost benefit analysis of Hogla mat production is calculated for one week.


Table 9: Cost benefit analysis of blanket making model Category of

Benefits

Benefits in Tk.

Costs category ( Utilizing three Bamboos)

Costs in Tk.

Net profit/loss value in Tk.

Selling of Blankets (30)

6000 Purchasing of the raw material or Jhut

( single freight) 1000 6000-4000=2000

(Profit during six months)

Working labor cost* (based on working hours)

3000

Total 6000 4000 2000 Source: Field Survey, 2012

*Normally the women right holders make blanket during their free time but here, per month Tk. 500 has been determined for the last six months.

This assessment is based on the right holder, Mrs. Parul Akhtar of Bishurigacha village under Kazipur upazila, Sirajganj. Cost benefit

analysis of the Blanket making model in small scale entrepreneurship is determined based on the last six months.

8.2.2 Opportunity Cost Most of the RHs of the models are women. They are usually confined themselves as homemakers. For poor communication people especially women are deprived of accessing both education and information. One the other hand, working outside is not well accepted according to the rural

community due to illiteracy, social restriction and conservative religious outlook. Thus, working opportunities for women are is inadequate in this area. The following alternative opportunities are found for bamboo made handicrafts and Hogla mat production.

Table 10: Alternative opportunity cost against bamboo made handicrafts

Fishing in the river Average selling price per day = Tk.150/2007

Maximum fishing days in a week=5 days Total income= Tk.750 (per day as 150)

Wage labor Per day labor charge = Tk.200

Maximum working day in a week= 5 Days Total income= Tk.1000

Source: Field Survey, 2013

Table 11: Alternative opportunity cost against Hogla mat production

Making Katha Selling price per Katha = Tk.300

Total time needed for single one=14 days Total income=150 (For one week)

Day labor in neighbors crop field Per day labor charge = Tk. 150

Maximum working day in a week= 5 Days Total income= Tk.750


Table 12: Alternative opportunity cost against blanket making model

Wage labour in harvesting field ( working in others field to collect harvested crops)

Per day labor charge = Tk.70. (dependent on crop category) Maximum working day= 36 days

Total income= Tk. 2520 on an average

Day labour in neighbor’s crop field Per day labor charge = Tk. 150

Maximum working days = 36 Days Total income= Tk.5400


7 Selling price varies with amount of fish captured in a day and also market price


Case Story Box 4 Right Holder: Shefali Rani Age: 45

Shefali is a beneficiary of Hogla Mat production model under small scale entrepreneurship of RESOLVE program. She is an inhabitant of a village in Nalmuri union under Gosairhat upazila, Shariatpur. Shefali has 4 children and her husband is too much sick to earn their livelihood. For tidal inundation, their small amount of cultivable lands had been washed away. So, they were at a total loss. Seven months ago, RESOLVE introduced Shefali with the Hogla Mat production. According to Shefali, ‗It is very easy to make and time consuming. We can make it even in our idle time just sitting in the yard‟. My daughter of 10 years can make it easily‟. About the profit she added, „with 1 tora of Hogla pata (that costs Tk.20) two mats can be produced which can be sold in Tk.60 each with a profit of about Tk.40.‟

8.2.2 Livelihood Status Changing livelihood of the targeted right holders in terms of increasing expenditure capacity in food, cloth, health, education, housing etc is the main assessment of this section. Before practicing the models, these people were totally dependent on single livelihood, totally based on traditional agriculture. After involving with the IGAs models, however, livelihood status has changed significantly. Now, these people can earn extra income besides their traditional livelihood. The RH‘s perception in the context of changed livelihood is shown here (Table 13). Most of the respondents have positive view on the diversification of their livelihood and their numbers are 30 among the total 36. On the other hand, only 4 of them have negative idea whereas 2 of them have no idea.

Table 13: Livelihood diversification status among the right holders

Changing Livelihood

status

Bamboo handicraft and Hogla mat production

Blanket making

Improved oven

Grand total

Positive 10 11 9 30 Negative 1 0 3 4 No idea 1 1 0 2

Total 12 12 12 36

Source Field survey, 2013

8.2.3 Food Security Status Ensuring food security is another prime objective of the programme. Present livelihood models of small scale entrepreneurship have significant role for ensuring food security among the RHs. There is a positive relation between income generation and food security. Thus, economic benefits of the model directly impact a family

in ensuring their food security. According to the field visit, the right holders under the models can take three times food now in a day which was quite difficult before involving with the models. Moreover, most of the rightholders have positive perception regarding the three pillars (food availability, food accessibility and food utilization) of food security (Table 14).

Table 14: Food security situation among the right holders

Features Yes No No comments Total respondents

Food availability (production, distribution, exchange) 21 2 1 24 Food accessibility (allocation, affordability, preference) 18 3 3 24

Food utilization (nutritional value, social value, food safety) 19 1 4 24


A comparative nutritional intake status is shown here among the RHs in the different

small scale entrepreneurship models (Figure 10). Here, in 2012, average per capita calorie


Case Story Box 5 Right Holder: Mrs. Renuka Begum Age: 34

Mrs. Renuka Begum lives at Pirgacha village in Khasrajbari union under Kazipur upazila, Sirajganj. Renuka Begum is one of the beneficiaries of Blanket Making model under RESOLVE program included in small scale entrepreneurship. Her husband Amarullah Sarkar is a poor day labourer. Her family consists of 5 members including 4 children. Renuka has been involved in the Blanket Making project six months ago. Now, she has got a good profit by making 40 blankets and selling them in the market. She is now able to add her family income easily. „In the winter season, the demand of the blanket goes high. I work hard targeting the winter season. I have been able to sell the entire blanket this time‟‘ said Renuka happily. She wants to sell these to the market, but being a woman it was not possible to sell them there. So, she has to sell these in the neibouring villages only. ‗If I could sell the blanket in the local market directly, I at least got double profit‘‘-she urged. Renuka Begum also hoped to sell them in the market directly in the near future and she is expecting good opportunity from RESOLVE regarding this.

intake has increased than 2011. Month wise nutritional intake in the previous period (year 2011) has been found unstable and the linear progression has been fluctuating. After involving into the models, average per capita nutritional intake of the RHs has increased compared to the previous period and the progressions has also been found stable in smooth direction. Thus, in food security context the models have achieved significantly. According to the data as evidence, during the last pilot phase average nutritional intake among the RHs has increased than the uncontrolled group (non RHs). Through income generation, the models have been able to develop the livelihood status.

Figure 10: Average per capita nutritional intake among the RHs

Source: Livelihood Development Index (LDI) data

base, RESOLVE

8.2.4 Women Empowerment Women empowerment is a comprehensive as well as holistic approach. At present, however, RESOLVE programme has started the challenge in small scale-how the rural deprived women can be self dependent and play effective role both in their family and society. Entrepreneurship development and women empowerment are complementary to each other. Empowering rural women is one of the fundamental issues in the programme as well as the models. Women right holders; however, are the targeted group in the models aiming to empower themselves. Women right holders are now able to contribute their family by their increasing income in household level through practicing the models (Case story box 4). The field study and interviews (informal and formal) of the women right holders suggests that, women are now more influential and play significant decision making role in their family. To know about the women right holders situation in their family, the women have been categorised into four dependency feature with specific question regarding this. About 71 percent thought themselves as self dependent while 17 percent expressed themselves as partially dependent on their husband (Table 15). On the other hand, 8 percent have no idea and 4 percent are dependent on their husband.


Table 15: Women dependency status among the RHs


Decision making ability determines a women‘s position in a particular family. In another question, regarding their decision making role it is found that 19 respondents out of 24 can play active role in their family

decision making and the percentages are 79. On the other hand, 3 of them have no role while 2 respondents have no comments regarding this question (Table 16).

Table 16: Family decision making condition among the right holder

Category Feature Frequency Percentage

Can play active role in family

19 79

No role 3 13

No comments 2 8

Grand total 24 100


8.2.5 Moving Toward Resilience Adapting climatic shocks and making a community towards resilience is the prime goal under RESOLVE programme. Different livelihood options under livelihood diversification and Small Scale Entrepreneurship has been set up in the study areas to make the community more resilience against climate change impact. Present small scale entrepreneurship models in this regard, are supporting the RHs especially to cope with the adverse impacts of natural hazards. In most of the cases, the RHs are landless having no cultivable lands. Therefore, extra income through the models will make them successful to cope with the natural hazards.

The field visit exposed that, about 75 percent of the respondents have positive response about the feasibility of the models in climate resiliency. On the other hand, 17 percent have positive response but they emphasized more on seasonal resiliency less than year round resiliency.

Table 17: Climate resiliency of the models Respondent Feature Frequency Percentage

Positive for Climate adaptation

18 75

Positive but seasonal 4 17

No adaptive impacts 1 4

No Comments 1 4


9. CONSTRAINTS AND WAY

FORWORD The present practicing models under the ―Livelihood diversifications‖ and ―Small scale Entrepreneurship‖ models of the RESOLVE program have successfully completed its pilot phase. During the implementation time of the models, various constraints and limitations has also come in front. Some of them are there but most concerned limitations have been illustrated talking with the right holders, community representatives, implementing partners as well as by the field survey. Poor Communication Network Communication network plays a significant role in marketing of a product. However,

poor communication network does not allow the rightholders to move outside easily to buy raw materials and sell their products. In today‘s world, where internet marketing is moving faster and emerging new ways in market promotions, in context of the study areas this opportunity is even totally out of contemplation. In the RESOLVE generated areas, communication system is found very poor. The char islands and roads of the remote areas are always being inundated in the monsoon and tidal time. Hence, water-based transports are the main transportation source which is not even available in these areas. Transportation network is also poor and even some areas are out of mobile network service.

Dependency Feature Frequency Percentage

Self dependent 17 71

Partial dependent on husband

4 17

Totally dependent on husband

1 4

No comments 2 8

Grand total 24 100


Single Modal Transportation Transportation is very important in transferring a product from one place to another. So, improved transportation network indicates improved and developed supply chain system in a channel to move products from producers to consumers. Transportational networking in the context of present study area is based upon single modal. Interestingly, in three different districts three different single modal transportational mediums are found. In Gaibandha, it is Van (A three wheeler paddle vehicle), in Sirajganj it is engine boat or simply boat (Engine boat, which locally also known as Trawler) and in Shariatpur, it is based on boat and Van (these vary with the spatial location of villages).On account of single modal transportation, they do not move their products as they desire. Lack of Veterinary Support Livelihood diversification models (Seep and Chick rearing) have been practicing in two districts namely Gaibandha and Sirajganj. The field visit and the interviews of RHs suggest that veterinary (para vet) supports are insufficient in the concerned areas. there may have different limitations of the programme In the pilot phase but to prevent unusual death of sheep and chick diseases veterinary assistance is a must in regular basis (especially for different livestock diseases particularly arise in the rainy season). For sheep rearing model, seasonal food crisis is a considerable problem (problem arise in monsoon during inundation and flood period) because most of the land becomes inundate. So, an alternative food source needs to be in consideration during this time for the next phase. Increasing Raw Material Cost Raw materials are crucial for any enterprise output. The field visit and the interviews of RHs reveal that cost of raw materials is increasing day by day. Bamboo, Hogla leaves, Jhut etc. are common raw materials of the models. The rightholders, however, must have easy access of these raw materials with reasonable price for desired profit.

Lack of Proper Market Channels A proper market channel is very important to move a product from producer to consumer through a value chain system. Assessing the existing market channel of the area, it is found that right holders have got huge storage of products in their home. However, they cannot sell these due to lower market price or lack of proper channels. Most of the cases, the local trader Faria or Dalal8 buy the products in namely price and get double profit reselling the products to the urban traders or others. Rightholders in this context have desired to get access in such supply chain where they can maximize their benefits. Moreover, they hope that RESOLVE will bring the opportunity playing roles as interlinkers. Recommendations and Way Forward

Increasing field co- ordination and assistance

Providing veterinary assistant to prevent unusual death of Sheep and Chick disease (especially for the rainy season).

Giving priority to the right holders aspiration to sustain the models

Providing training facility to the right holders

Developing alternative food source for sheep in the flood period ( especially in rainy season)

Providing developed design and template of different handicrafts

Ensuring easy access to soften loan facility to the small scale entrepreneurs

Developing transportation network to move the produced products from outside of the locality

Developing proper value chain supply so that right holders can get maximum profit from their products

8 Generally Faria and Dalal are the local intermediaries, who buy a product directly from a farmer or act as linker between producers and wholesale buyers.


10. CONCLUSION The discussion above suggests that the new implemented and diversified livelihood options has been playing significant role to change the RH‘s livelihood in terms of increasing expenditure capability, empowering rural women and the ultimate vision to move forward to climate resiliency. In spite of some limitations or different constraints in the pilot phase, the models have been found as an effective touchstone to improve the right

holder socio –economic condition. During the primary phase, the models have achieved significant progress in all the targeted pillars including livelihood, economic, food security, women empowerment and climate resiliency. In some cases, the model could not meet the target due to some limitations of the project as well the integration of field activities. If these limitations of the pilot phase can be minimized and recommended target can be achieved, the RHs will get the actual output of the programme.


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