Economic Significance Of The Wetlands In The Malda District: Case Study Saili Beel In English Bazar Block, Kalma Beel In Chanchal Block-I And Bogole Beel In Chanchal Block-II Of Malda District In West Bengal

Abstract

Wetlands contribute to the national and local economies by producing resources and providing other natural benefits of the wetland. In West Bengal, the estimated benefit from natural wetlands cultivation is Rs. 3.59 lakh per year. The cost of irrigation from wetlands are cheaper for upland paddy cultivation as compared to irrigation from wetlands. Wetlands provide resources for local people such as food, water, raw materials for building in the village and raw materials for cottage handicrafts. Moreover, in West Bengal, wetlands are used for multiple purposes and have economic significant role in the livelihoods of the local people. It is also widely recognized that wetland have a significant influence on hydrological cycle. Wetland has therefore become important elements in water management policy at nation wetlands reduce floods, recharge groundwater augment low flows. Wetlands are important sources of aquatic biodiversity. This research paper is an attempt to highlight through observation and case study saili beel in English bazar block, kalma beel in Chanchal block-I and Bogole beel in Chanchal block-II of Malda district in West Bengal. The present study is focused on economic significance of different wetlands of the Malda district in West Bengal, India.