Climate change-oriented risk awareness, knowledge and adaptation strategies in semi-arid region, Agra, India

Abstract

Knowledge of climate change causes and adaptation practices is crucial for tackling challenges posed by climate change. This study intended to generate information for different stakeholders to understand and facilitate climate change and its related adaptation management in semi-arid region, Agra, India. We collected household-level data from 120 farming households using a well-structured interview schedule, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that the majority of respondents were aware of climate change indicators such as rise in temperature, rainfall, frequency of hot days and cold nights, wind velocity, etc. Less than half of respondents realised that climate change is mainly due to human-beings activities. The majority of respondents reported soil and water conservation (SWC) measures as the most effective adaptation strategy. Similarly, watershed management and change in cropping patterns were reported by 75% of respondents for mitigating effects of climate change. Majority of the respondents had moderate and poor knowledge of climate change causes and adaptation strategies, therefore they have not adopted climate-resilient practices like zero tillage, crop rotation practices and stress-tolerant varieties, etc. For long-term solution to minimise adverse impact of climate change in agriculture, it is essential to have sustainable adaptation strategies in agriculture. This study provides valuable information for different stakeholders in facilitating climate change-related adaptation at the regional level in India.