Vulnerability of resource-poor farmers to climate change and traditional adaptation pattern at high-altitude cold arid region

Abstract

This chapter reports on a study in the Ladakh region of northern India where resource-poor farming communities are exposed to multiple drivers of climate change from water scarcity on land and mountain resources to land degradation, placing additional stress on challenged ecosystems, economic growth and livelihoods. The study was designed to investigate the situation for the majority of farmers who are relatively vulnerable to climate change under the general, climatic hazard events, and analyze the factors contributing to vulnerability. Location-specific scientific interventions in combination with traditional knowledge helps local communities adapt to climate variability and ensures better livelihood outcomes by delivering more viable options. Understanding the key concepts of climate change and vulnerability is a major issue in the high altitude areas.