Rural households in India, particularly farmers, are exposed to current climate variability and risk, which is likely to increase due to climate change. This study assessed current adaptation strategies adopted by rural households in two dry land villages of Bagepalli Block, Chikballapur district, Karnataka, in southern India. The adequacy of adaptation strategies was also assessed. The study showed that rural households and in particular, farmers adopted several practices to cope with current climate risks which include; irrigation provisioning (depending on ground water), shift in cropping pattern (to more resilient but low economically valued crops and varieties), mixed cropping, agro-forestry (as a long term strategy), diversified livestock holdings and reliance on government development programmes. The adaptation measures also included leaving croplands fallow, sale of assets, such as livestock and trees in their property, and migration. Current climate related responses to agricultural distress are not adequate to cope with even the current climate risks. This further indicates that rural households may not be able to cope with increasing climate variability and climate change. Thus, there is an urgent need for an improved understanding of current adaptation strategies and to enhance resilience and develop structured adaptation strategies to cope with current climate risks and long-term climate change.
With its population of over 1.2 billion and vulnerability to climate change, its history of low emissions and because of its democratic, cultural, political and scientific strengths, India is a key player in the global climate change debate. It has been playing an increasingly constructive role in international climate change negotiations. India's domestic climate policy is also becoming more ambitious as India progresses toward its 12th Five-Year Plan objectives for faster, sustainable and more inclusive growth. The country's objectives are achievable but will require faster and stronger action; efficient implementation strategies; greater co-ordination between states and among sectors; strengthening of public-private partnerships; and enhancing international collaborations.
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