Journal of African Development

Climate change ranks among the biggest challenges related to agriculture systems. Agricultural lands in arid and semi-arid regions are more susceptible to the changing climate patterns. Rajasthan is one such state where agriculture mostly depends on the vagaries of the monsoon. Climate change has taken a toll on Rajasthan’s agricultural sector with high temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, recurring droughts and depletion of groundwater levels affecting the productivity, cropping pattern and farmers income directly. Studies revealed that with every 1.2° rise in temperature there has been considerable loss in productivity of major crops like wheat and millets affecting the food security of the region. Some studies indicate the possibility of decline being compensated with the availability of adaptive technologies rendering loss estimates inconclusive. Other negative impacts reviewed include shifts in cropping pattern, reduced certainty in production and increasing vulnerability of small holder farmers. Studies also warn against oversimplification of declaring climate change as the reason behind changes in cropping patterns as market demand, policy incentives etc. also affect decisions farmers make. Suggestions to cope with climatic shocks include cultivation of climate resilient crops, micro irrigation, etc. Many of these are sustainable agricultural practices but lack popularity due to the high cost and lack of institutional support. The study reveals an immediate need to address climate change effects through proper policy intervention and technological innovations along with adaptation measures taken by farmers themselves. Literature also presents a mixed review with some stating technological advances can help make agriculture more resilient to climate change and some stating that policies and climate change adaptation strategies must be designed based on the ground realities of farmers, their resources and the socio-economic conditions. To achieve inclusive growth in the agricultural sector of Rajasthan, there is a strong need to build climate resilience as well as resolve these contradictions..  ......