Farmers’ perception of climate change in Madhya Pradesh

The study examines the impact of farmers’ perceptions and interpretations of climate-induced risks for agriculture in the catchment area of River Chambal in Madhya Pradesh, India. The research shows that farmers who perceived an increase in temperature are educated to more than the 8th grade, and that those who are aware of the decrease in the average precipitation over the years belong to the joint family type. A higher level of income and more farming experience significantly affect perceptions of the need for an increase in irrigation frequency. These results indicate the importance of investing in farmers’ education, encouraging joint family-based living, making sustained efforts to increase farmers’ income and making use of the experience of elder farmers.