Understanding farmers perceptions about climate change: a study in a North Indian State

Abstract

Perceptions not only shape knowledge but knowledge also shapes perceptions about an object, event or phenomena. Farmers’ perceptions about climate change, therefore, strongly affects how they understand and deal with climate induced risks and uncertainties, and undertake specific measures to mitigate the adverse impact of climate change on agriculture. The present study was undertaken to ascertain farmers’ perceptions about climate change and determine factors affecting it. The study was conducted in two purposively selected districts in the state of Uttar Pradesh (India) which were deemed to be vulnerable to climate change. The study sample comprised of 120 farmers selected randomly. The findings showed that farmers have fairly high level of perception about climate change and its various dimensions. Further, age, education, occupation, farming experience, knowledge about coping strategies, and mass media ownership and exposure were found to be significantly related with farmers’ perception about climate change. Hence, an appropriate policy framework and specific programmes for sustainable agriculture growth are needed for enhancing farmers’ perception towards climate change and for promoting climate smart agriculture.