Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Productivity and Rural Livelihoods

Summary

Climate change poses a significant and escalating threat to agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable regions across the globe. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures have already increased by approximately 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, leading to increased frequency of extreme weather events. 

Rising temperatures, erratic precipitation patterns, prolonged droughts, and floods are adversely affecting crop productivity, soil health, water resources, and livestock systems. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that climate change could reduce global crop yields by up to 10-25% by 2050, disproportionately impacting smallholder farmers and economically marginalized communities dependent on climate-sensitive agriculture for income and food security.

This presentation critically examines both the direct and indirect impacts of climate change on agricultural systems and explores the resulting socio-economic vulnerabilities within rural populations. Evidence from developing regions, including India, indicates that climate variability has already contributed to declining farm productivity, increased input costs, and income instability.

About the presenter:

Kuldeep Mishra is a dedicated climate and development professional with expertise in climate change, sustainable agriculture, and rural livelihoods. He currently serves as an MIS Executive at People's Action for National Integration (PANI), where he contributes to large-scale climate and clean energy initiatives through data-driven monitoring, evaluation, and strategic analysis. His work focuses on strengthening project implementation, ensuring data accuracy, and generating insights to support evidence- based decision-making.

Kuldeep has extensive experience working at the grassroots level with smallholder farmers, including women entrepreneurs, promoting climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance resilience, productivity, and sustainable livelihoods. He has actively supported the implementation of key government schemes as well as facilitating community engagement, training, and awareness on clean energy adoption and sustainable farming practices by adapting Climate Resilient Agricultural Practices.

He holds a PhD in Geography with a research theme focusing on the "A Study of Climate Change and its Impact on Agricultural Productivity" and has authored multiple research publications and Book with Book Chapters in this field. His work effectively bridges research, policy, and community-level action, contributing to climate resilience, food security, and inclusive rural development. He remains committed to advancing environmental sustainability through innovative and community-driven approaches.