Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Strategies of Rice Cultivators in Odisha, India

Abstract

In the present era, climate change is the biggest challenge for the world. The vulnerability of climate change to India’s agriculture sector is quite evident. Due to its geographical existence, climate change is creating a vulnerable situation in the eastern part of India. Odisha's economy is one of the most affected in this regard. The agriculture sector, being the common practice of livelihood, is always sensitive to climate change. The unpredictable rainfall patterns, floods, droughts, and frequent cyclones have caused severe damage to crops and livestock, leading to a lack of employment and a vulnerable situation for farmer households. Therefore, this study employed the LVI approach to evaluate farmers' climate change vulnerability and used the probit model to identify the factors influencing farmers' adaptation options. To accomplish the stated objective, both primary and secondary data have been used. Primary data have been collected from four blocks (Athagarh, Cuttack Sadar, Barang, and Banki) of Cuttack districts, Odisha, where most of the farmers are marginal farmers. The LVI combined nine major components and 33 subcomponents under it, which establishes a specific functional relationship with vulnerability. The vulnerability assessment indicates that Cuttack district is moderately vulnerable to climate change, with a 0.41 vulnerability score. Social network and livelihood strategies are the major scoring indices in this regard, with 0.90 and 0.65 LVI values, respectively. The probit model found that farming experience and non-farm income are detrimental factors for adopting any strategies to combat climate change. The policy options are precautionary measures that are required to withstand the negative effects of climate change. Therefore, effective government steps required in creating an awareness program, extending training facilities to the farmers, and proper provisioning of irrigation and credit facilities are highly essential for increasing crop productivity and reducing the vulnerability of the farmer household.