A Study on The Effectiveness of Farmer-Led Adaptation Strategies for Livestock Rearing to Climate Change in Eastern Uttar Pradesh Through a Participatory Approach

Abstract

Uttar Pradesh is India's largest milk-producing state, with the eastern region highly susceptible to climate change compared to other regions of the state. Therefore, eastern Uttar Pradesh was selected purposely. Total fifteen farmers’-led adaptation strategies to climate change followed in livestock-rearing were documented and quantified by using Climate Change Adaptation Index. Adaptation strategies were evaluated using the Quantification of Indigenous Knowledge method (QuIK). “Use of shed for animals”, “providing fresh drinking water to animals”, and “providing extra bath/shower to animals”, “proper sanitation and healthy practices”, “vaccination” and “use of jute cloth to cover animals’ body” were the most preferred adaptation strategies. Heavy rainfall has been increased in the region, so "proper sanitation and healthy practices" and "vaccination" were chosen as the most efficient adaptation strategies. The heatwave (loo) and high temperature-induced heat stress on livestock, so “providing extra drinking water and extra bath/shower to livestock” were considered most effective. For protecting animals from cold waves during winter, “jute cloth to cover animals” was preferred effective due to its easy availability and application.