Farmers’ Perceptions of Climate Change and Weather Aberrations Affecting Major Crops Productivity in Haryana, India

Abstract

This study investigates farmers’ perceptions of climate change and its perceived impact on the productivity of major crops—wheat, paddy, and cotton—in Haryana, India. Conducted in Hisar and Sonipat districts, the research used a multi-stage random sampling method to survey 120 farmers through structured interviews. Perceptions were assessed using 5-point and 3-point Likert scales, supported by descriptive statistics and crop yield data from the 2022–23 season. The majority of farmers reported significant changes in climate patterns, including delayed monsoons, erratic rainfall, increased summer temperatures, prolonged winters, and declining groundwater levels. These changes were associated with delayed crop maturity, reduced yields, increased irrigation needs, and a rise in pest and disease incidence. Farmers perceived that weather aberrations such as terminal heat, excess or deficit rainfall, high wind velocity, and fog during critical growth stages led to substantial yield reductions—wheat yields declined due to terminal heat, while high temperatures during cotton flowering reduced output. The consistency between farmer perceptions and yield losses highlights the importance of local knowledge in climate impact assessment. Based on these findings, the study recommends location-specific climate-resilient strategies, improved irrigation and pest control practices, and the strengthening of extension services to enhance farmers’ adaptive responses and safeguard agricultural productivity in the face of increasing climate variability.