Perception and adaptation of agricultural households to climate change in the semi-arid regions of Rajasthan – a gender perspective study

Abstract

PurposeThe study aims to analyze the gender-wise perception of the agricultural households toward climate change and the adaption measures taken by these households, especially women, to mitigate climate changes.Design/methodology/approachPurposive random sampling technique is used to collect primary data from a pilot survey conducted in two semi-arid districts of Rajasthan, India. Data mainly focused on analyzing the gender-based perception and adaptation strategies undertaken toward climate change. And descriptive statistics are used for analysis.FindingsThe study found that both the gender are aware of the climatic changes. Deforestation increased population, change in living standards, urbanization and industrialization contribute to climate changes. The women are employing limited adaptation strategies to mitigate the climatic stress compared to males.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a pilot study; hence, it has an insufficient sample size for the detailed statistical analysis. Further, it is only limited to two semi-arid districts of Rajasthan.Originality/valueThis pioneering study highlights gender-wise differences in perception and adaptation strategies undertaken in this region. The study suggests raising awareness about climate change and providing credit facilities for undertaking adaptation measures to reduce agricultural households' vulnerability, particularly enhancing women's adaptive capacity to climate change.

Climate change and pro-environmental behaviours: the significant environmental challenges of livelihoods

“…Similarly, financial stability can be affected by both positive and negative climate shocks (Liu et al, 2021). In Rajasthan, India, a pilot survey by Mohapatra and George (2021) shows both males and females are aware of the climatic changes. Similarly, worldwide, there is no uniformity between or with countries regarding the fears about the impacts of CC on local environments.…”