A paradigm shift toward Climate-Resilient Agriculture (CRA) is suggested in this chapter as a more transformative and equitable response to climate change, after critically analyzing the shortcomings of traditional Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). The justification is based on the observed discrepancy between productivity-focused interventions and smallholder farmers’ lived realities, which include limited resources, subpar land, and a variety of livelihood strategies. The chapter examines various livelihood paths, the function of social equity, the fundamentals of CRA, and the prerequisites for transformative adaptation through a qualitative synthesis of case studies and theoretical insights. It illustrates how agroecological methods, Indigenous knowledge systems, and farmer-led innovations are forming more resilient agricultural futures through case studies from Asia–Pacific, Latin America, and sub-Saharan Africa. The findings show that resilience requires consideration of social differentiation, institutional support, inclusive governance, and knowledge co-production rather than relying solely on technical solutions. The deeply ingrained political economy of agriculture, opposition within policy institutions, and the difficulty of juggling conflicting objectives and uncertainty are some of the main obstacles. In order to support inclusive adaptation strategies that put equity first, encourage transformative change, and involve civil society actors, the chapter suggests reorienting agricultural and climate policy. It emphasizes the need for long-term, methodical strategies that support agroecological transitions, empower smallholder communities, and incorporate resilience into more comprehensive development planning. Achieving just, climate-resilient, and sustainable food systems requires this integrated approach.