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The above average literacy rate is a promising sign that the population and commu-nity will

be willing to participate and identify the pros and cons of recreation/tourism development.
The population is capable of being primary stakeholders in any proposed developmental

infrastructure and can contribute positively towards execution and maintenance of any such
projects.

Economic background - Approximately 30% of families reported a monthly income of less
than Rs. 2500/-, while around 9% of families fall within the income bracket of Rs. 2501 to
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
5000/-. Moreover, about 29% of families earn between Rs. 5001 to 10000/- per month,

while 32% of families' income exceeds Rs. 10001/-. The average monthly income of a
family is calculated to be Rs. 4720/-.[39] As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS),

Annual Report 2022-2023, the average monthly income of a salaried person in rural India is
Rs 14,700.

The disparity in income points to social inequalities and lower quality of life within the area

of study. This also suggests that the population will benefit from additional sources of
income that recreational and tourism development will offer.

Employment - During the social survey, the occupation and profession of the head of the
family were taken into account, encompassing both residential and residential plus

commercial areas. The study aimed to record and evaluate the capabilities, livelihood

foundations, and skills of the family heads. The data indicates that the majority, com-prising
66.97% of family heads, are involved in fishing and related activities. Addition-ally, 15.61%

are self-employed, 7.17% work as casual labourers, and 5.90% are em-ployed in public
sector and government positions.

Social attitudes towards fishing as a primary source of livelihood are changing. The heads of
families would rather prefer their children and acquaintances be involved in salaried jobs in

urban Mumbai than in their village. Diversification of employment opportunities and

infrastructure is necessary as more people migrate towards nearby urban centres. This again
suggests the possibility of providing alternate livelihoods through infrastructure and

sustainable tourism development.
Religious & Social Groups - Data regarding religious affiliations were collected to discern

individuals with specific religious beliefs within the population. Understanding the religious
beliefs and social affiliations of individuals serves as an indicator for com-prehending

cultural behaviours within groups. The analysis revealed that 65% of the population

identifies as Christian Kolis, while 21% are Hindus, 8% are Muslims, 4% are Jains, and 1%
are Buddhists. Furthermore, it was determined that 27% of individu-als belong to Scheduled

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