Evaluation of Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity among Turmeric Farmers in Mizoram

Abstract

This research was conducted during the year August, 2022 to March, 2023 in Mizoram, located in the North Eastern Himalayan region of India, focusing on two districts–Lunglei (a high turmeric producing district) and Mamit (a lower-producing one). To measure livelihood vulnerability, the study applied the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Vulnerability Index (IPCC-VI), and a cost-benefit analysis was used to evaluate adaptation measures. Farming communities in the Himalayan hills and mountains faced heightened risks from climate change due to their distinct environmental and socioeconomic conditions. Understanding the extent of this vulnerability and implementing effective adaptation strategies was essential to minimize adverse impact, as farmers with stronger adaptive capacity were generally better prepared to handle climate-related challenges. Data were gathered from 334 turmeric farmers. The results showed that majority of sampled households (over 90%) in both districts perceived an increase in temperatures during both summer and winter. Similarly, most respondents observed a decrease in rainfall in their areas. Lunglei district had a higher vulnerability index (0.68) compared to Mamit (0.52), due to greater climate exposure, higher sensitivity, and lower adaptive capacity. Adaptive capacity of Mamit was calculated to be higher (0.62) than Lunglei (0.52). In order to reduce the vulnerability to climate variability, majority of the farmers adopted different strategies including cultivate smaller area than usual, change in harvesting time, change in crop cultivar and change in sowing time. The findings highlighted the importance of reducing household sensitivity and strengthening adaptive capacity to effectively manage vulnerability to climate change.