Climate Change Impact on Crop Production: Insights from Smallholder Farmers in Flood-prone Areas of North Bengal, India

The agriculture sector is highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, as it frequently encounters various extreme climatic events, including droughts, floods, natural disasters, and salinity intrusion. In order to effectively address the challenges posed by climate change and minimise its negative effects on crop production, it is crucial to evaluate the perceptions of farmers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of smallholder farmers regarding the impact of climate change on crop production in flood-prone regions of North Bengal, India. A combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was utilised in this study. The collection of primary data was conducted by administering a structured questionnaire through a household survey conducted in June and July of 2023. The study participants consisted of 225 smallholder farmers residing in the flood-prone regions of North Bengal. The data were analysed utilising descriptive statistics, the coefficient of correlation, and stepwise regression. The primary findings indicate that the perceived effects of climate change on crop production were classified as severe, with a subsequent classification of moderate impact. Out of the 15 statements concerning the impact of climate change on crop production, it was widely recognised that the most significant consequence was the escalation of pest infestations. The elevated frequency and intensity of flooding events have been identified as the second most significant consequence of climate change. The socio-economic characteristics of the respondents that had the most significant impact on smallholder farmers’ perception were education, farming experience, and training experience. The study has identified significant issues that policymakers and development practitioners should address. The methodologies utilised and the outcomes obtained in this study have the potential to be applied in other flood-prone regions of India that share comparable socio-economic and regional characteristics.