Paper Details

Climate change is increasingly influencing rural life and agricultural stability across India, and Gwalior district in Madhya Pradesh is no exception. Farmers here depend heavily on climate-sensitive resources, making even small environmental shifts noticeable in their day-to-day work. This study focuses on ten villages in the district and explores how farmers interpret the ongoing changes in weather, how these shifts are affecting their crops, and what practical measures they are adopting to cope. A purposive sample of 100 farmers was selected to capture a mix of age groups, landholding patterns, and socio-economic backgrounds, giving a clearer picture of the diversity within the community. The analysis is supported by established research on climate science and adaptation (United Nations, 2023; Alley et al., 1999; Stern et al., 2013; IPCC, 2023; Kurukulasuriya & Rosenthal, 2003; Stocker et al., 2013; Habtemariam et al., 2017; Antronico et al., 2020; Masud et al., 2015; Funatsu et al., 2019), helping position local experiences within broader climate debates. Farmers across the surveyed villages reported noticeable irregularities in rainfall, more intense dry periods, shifting temperature patterns, and declining crop performance. Although they recognise these trends, their coping strategies tend to rely on traditional knowledge and are often constrained by financial conditions, limited irrigation options, and uneven institutional support. The findings offer a grounded understanding of how rural communities in Gwalior district perceive and navigate climate-related challenges. The study highlights the need for targeted awareness efforts, improved local planning, and stronger policy support to enhance resilience. The recommendations, aligned with the vision of the Global Foundation for Advancement of Environment and Human Wellness , emphasise community-led and environmentally responsible pathways for strengthening long-term sustainability in rural Madhya Pradesh.

Climate Change; Farmers’ Perception; Gwalior; Climate Adaptation; Agriculture; Livelihood Vulnerability; Environmental Awareness; Community Resilience.