Farmers’ Perception and Micro-level Climate Adaptation Strategies in Bundelkhand Region, India
Surendra Singh *
ICAR - National Institute of Agricultural Economics and Policy Research, New Delhi, India.
Sanatan Nayak
Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, India.
Ruby K. Kanojia
Kamla Raja Girls Government Post Graduate College, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study develops an understanding on human dimension approach of adaptation with special context to Indian agriculture. The study conducts a micro-level assessment of farmer’s perception and adaptation responses based on survey data analysis of 200 farm household from two districts, i.e., Jalaun and Jhansi of Bundelkhand region. The study finds perceive and adapt cognitive condition to the main adaptation condition. The study recognizes the importance of social relations for developing an understanding of climate change. Government sources are found to be less impactful in delivering climate information along with other hypothesized sources. The study results provide a useful guide for identifying region-specific adaptation strategies options like, adoption of disease resistant seed varieties and use of new plant protection chemicals to deal with climate change. The role of government needs to be escalated in providing appropriate and adequate climate information to the farmers. Policy action is needed in creating awareness, increasing faith on reliability and accuracy of climate information services by the government.
Keywords: Climate change, farmers’ perceptions, adaptation strategies, dry region, field data.