Study of Social-Ecological Systems and Climate-Related Disasters in the Indian Sundarbans

Abstract

The interactions or connections between an area's social system and ecological system are referred to as the "socio-ecological system" (SES). The Indian Sundarbans, which can be viewed as an integrated SES, are home to more than 5 million people and are rich in wildlife. The current study examines the aforementioned SES at the microlevel. In order to perform a primary survey using an appropriate questionnaire, four villages from two blocks of the Indian Sundarbans—Madhya Gurguria, Debipur, Satjelia, and Rangabelia—were chosen. The study's findings indicate that the region is heavily dependent on its cattle, fishing, and agricultural resources. In the village economy, relying on numerous resources to generate revenue is the norm. However, this in turn is putting further strain on the already limited resource base. In order to analyse resource usage and flow at the microlevel in the Indian Sundarbans, the article does so. In order to secure the sustainability of both resources and the way of life of those who live in the SES of the Indian Sundarbans, the present study makes the case for the need of a strong framework that supports the inclusive and participatory participation of all stakeholders in resource management.