Agriculture in Odisha: Challenges Due to Climate Uncertainty

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to investigate the impacts of climate change in the rural areas of Angul, Odisha. Due to various political and economic reasons, there is a lack of research on Angul. The study explores the effects of climate uncertainty in Angul using multiple qualitative research methodologies, such as semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, qualitative observations, and focus group discussions. The result of this study suggests that climate change has resulted in the loss of agricultural yield, market saturation of crops, water crises, loss of livelihood, migration of young people, health risks, and human-wildlife conflict. Although the four research locations have similar environmental conditions, the impact of climate change is very different. Padmapur is the most affected by climate change, while Naupada and Balipatta can resist climatic shocks due to their natural resources. Further research is needed to expand the sample size and conduct ethnographic studies to better understand climate change's impact on the rural communities in Angul and Odisha.