Potentiality of Ecotourism and Entrepreneurship Development in Mousuni Island of Sundarbans: SWOT- AHP Analysis

Abstract

Present study intends to assess the current scenario of tourism in Mousuni island, one of the most vulnerable ocean-facing islands of Indian Sundarban delta region, present problems, potentials for development of ecotourism and various entrepreneurships in this island. The present unplanned ‘camp tourism’ of this island should be promoted to planned ‘ecotourism’ for the purposes of conservation of local environment, development of local economy and rural livelihoods of people. This study has been carried out with the help of secondary and primary datasets through structured questionnaires for camp-owners, tourists and local people. Collected datasets have been analyzed through SWOT-AHP hybrid model and GIS techniques in order to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats regarding tourism of Mousuni island and provide ideas and strategies for sustainable future planning and management toward the development of ecotourism and entrepreneurships in this island ensuring active participation of local people for their well-being. Here, the main focuses are on generation of strategies for improvement of livelihoods of local people, development of local economy, conservation of nature, achievement of full cooperation and support of administration, development of sustainable infrastructures in the process of establishment of an ideal community-based ecotourism in Mousuni island without hampering its authenticity and unique social identity.