International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development
2025, Vol. 8, Issue 9, Part K
Climate change perception and adaptation strategies among farmers: A socio-economic synthesis across agro-ecological zones
Pooja Krishna J, Anupama S, Holy Mercy Divina Matla, Megha AM and Anjana PM
Farmers’ perceptions of climate change play a pivotal role in shaping adaptation strategies and determining the resilience of agricultural systems. Perceptions, grounded in observed shifts in rainfall, temperature, and extreme weather events, directly influence farmers’ decision-making under conditions of uncertainty. Evidence indicates that accurate climate risk perception enhances the adoption of effective adaptive practices, while misperceptions may result in maladaptation, thereby increasing vulnerability and threatening food and livelihood security. Over the past decade (2015-2025), methodological approaches for assessing farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies have evolved considerably, transitioning from basic surveys and descriptive statistics to advanced mixed-methods designs, econometric modelling, and integration of meteorological and psychological data. This review synthesizes insights across agro-ecological zones, highlighting typologies of adaptation strategies, socio-economic determinants of adoption, gendered dimensions of adaptation, and the structural barriers that hinder effective responses. Comparative analyses demonstrate that adaptation is shaped not only by farm-level attributes such as experience, land size, and crop type-but also by broader institutional and policy environments. The review further emphasizes the role of targeted interventions, inclusive policy frameworks, and institutional support in facilitating effective adaptation. Emerging trends, including digital agricultural extension, climate services, and participatory approaches, present new opportunities for strengthening farmer resilience. Research gaps remain, particularly in linking perception with long-term behavioural change, ensuring equity in adaptation, and evaluating the sustainability of adaptation measures. Addressing these gaps will be critical for developing inclusive, evidence-based strategies that align with sustainable agricultural development under changing climatic conditions.
