Publication

02.10.2015

Community-based adaptation of tribal women to climate change in semi-arid India

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This paper presents the results of an empirical study of the impacts of recurring droughts on indigenous communities in semi-arid districts of western India. It examines the root causes of drought in this region, indigenous peoples’ perceptions of drought-related vulnerabilities in relation to climate change and relevant action to combat the problem. Further, the adequacy of  policy responses and community adaptation strategies is analysed. Briefly, the study shows that several policy options failed to reflect the development of the area, leaving indigenous peoples vulnerable to climate change. It shows that the effect of lack of finance after crop damage from drought and indigenous communities’ sole dependence on forests (as safety net) has been overcome through women’s self-help groups adopting tribal, community-based adaptation initiatives. The paper concludes with the recommendation that community-based adaptation should be identified and prioritized in policy designed to implement drought-risk reduction activities.

TAGS:

  • drought; indigenous peoples; forest; adaptation; vulnerability