Socio-Economic Impacts of Natural Disasters on Farming Communities in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Natural disasters severely threaten agricultural systems in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, where floods, cyclones, droughts, and seawater intrusion frequently disrupt farming activities. The present study, conducted in the Keerapalayam block of Cuddalore district, aimed to analyze the socio-economic profile of farmers and assess their perceptions of the impacts of natural disasters on agriculture and livelihoods. Data were collected from 120 randomly selected farmers using a structured interview schedule. Results indicated that most respondents were older, small-scale farmers with medium income and education levels, and agriculture as their primary occupation. Respondents perceived natural disasters to cause extensive crop damage, soil erosion, water scarcity and loss of farm income, highlighting severe impacts on crop production, land, water and socio-economic stability. The findings emphasise the need for climate-resilient agricultural practices, improved extension services, efficient soil and water management, and farmer-centric insurance mechanisms. Strengthening institutional support, promoting livelihood diversification and enhancing community-based disaster preparedness are essential for building adaptive capacity among coastal farmers. The study contributes to the growing body of evidence on climate risk perception and offers policy insights for sustainable and disaster-resilient agricultural development.