In the heart of Nepal’s Terai region, farmers in Sarlahi district are grappling with a silent crisis that threatens their livelihoods and the nation’s food security. A recent study led by Dhurba Banjade, from the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science at Tribhuvan University, sheds light on the challenges faced by these farmers as they contend with climate change and its impacts on rice production.
The study, published in ‘AgroEnvironmental Sustainability’ (Sustainable Agriculture and Environment), reveals a stark reality: 96.8% of the 94 surveyed households reported rising temperatures, while 90.4% noted reduced rainfall frequency and intensity. These changes are not just statistical anomalies; they are tangible threats to the farmers’ ability to sustain their yields. “The changes in climate patterns have been drastic,” says Banjade. “Farmers are struggling to adapt, and their traditional methods are no longer sufficient.”
The research highlights a critical gap in climate knowledge among farmers. Only 2.1% of respondents were well-informed about climate change, with personal experience serving as the primary source of information for 75.5%. This lack of formal knowledge is a significant barrier to effective adaptation. Farmers are resorting to various strategies, including improved rice varieties (66%), green manuring (34%), and alternate wetting and drying (24.5%). However, only a small percentage (8.5%) utilized crop insurance, indicating a need for more comprehensive support systems.
The study also underscores the gender and landholding size disparities in adaptation practices. Larger landholders are more likely to adopt new techniques, leaving smaller farmers and women at a disadvantage. This disparity is a call to action for policymakers to ensure that support reaches all segments of the farming community.
The commercial impacts of these findings are profound. Rice is a staple crop in Nepal, and any disruption in its production can have cascading effects on the economy. The energy sector, which relies on agricultural byproducts for biofuel production, is particularly vulnerable. Reduced rice yields could lead to a shortage of raw materials, affecting biofuel production and, consequently, energy security.
The research by Banjade and his team is a wake-up call for the agricultural sector. It highlights the urgent need for targeted policy interventions to enhance climate resilience. This includes comprehensive education programs, resource support, and inclusive policies that ensure no farmer is left behind. As climate change continues to reshape agricultural landscapes, the insights from this study will be crucial in shaping future developments in sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
The findings also underscore the importance of integrating climate-smart practices into farming. Improved rice varieties, green manuring, and alternate wetting and drying are just the beginning. There is a pressing need for innovative solutions that can mitigate the impacts of climate change while ensuring food security. The energy sector, too, must adapt by diversifying its sources and investing in renewable energy technologies that are less dependent on agricultural byproducts.
As we look to the future, the research from Sarlahi serves as a microcosm of the global challenge. It is a reminder that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a socio-economic one that demands collective action. The path forward lies in collaboration—between farmers, policymakers, and the energy sector—to build a resilient and sustainable future for all.