Farmer’s perception of climate change and adaptation strategies under temperate environmental conditions of Kashmir, India

Abstract

A study was conducted in nine different topographical locations of Kashmir valley to know the perception of the farmers about climate change. Adaptation and mitigation strategies adopted by the farmers were also documented over a specified period viz., 1980-2019. Results from the observed data revealed warming trends in all seasons, however, winter and spring season temperatures have shown statistically significant increasing trends at the rate of 0.040C/year. Analysis of seasonal and annual precipitation data shows a decreasing trend at the rate of-4.5 mm/ year. The farmers in the study areas had perceived that the climate has changed for the last four decades. Increasing temperature, frequent droughts and less snowfall were the main visual parameters experienced by the farmers. About 30-35% of the farmers have adopted different strategies by default to mitigate ill effects of climate change. However, the majority of the farmers (70%) have not adopted any strategy to cope up with the impacts of climate change. Farmers (>90%) have stressed on provision for an early warning system, timely supply of inputs, provision of financial support and nutrients for soil enrichment as viable options to combat the ill effects of climate change.