Livestock Rearers Under Climate Change: A Review of its Impact and Adaptation Strategies in India

Abstract

Livestock sector plays a significant role in socio-economic development of rural households dependent on livestock for income. The impact of climate change on livestock production and health is adverse in majority of agro-climatic regions, thereby making poor livestock owners most vulnerable to climate change. This paper reviews studies related to climate change impact on livestock rearers in different states or different agro-climatic regions. It explores the adverse effects of climate change faced or perceived by livestock farmers and various measures practised by them to cope with climate change effects. The paper also proposes future research directions that might help in addressing the climate change issues affecting livestock rearers livelihood and document localised adaptation strategies. Various policy recommendations stated in the paper aim to strengthen adaptive capacity of livestock farmers. The conclusion emphasizes the need for immediate actions to protect livelihood of the livestock farmers from ill effects of climate change.