Keywords
vulnerable regions
climate resilience
multinomial logistic regression
irrigation
Categories
How to Cite
Abstract
This study examines the determinants, and barriers to crop diversification among marginal farmers in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, associated with Water User Associations (WUA). Conducted in 2024 in Kranti block, the research assesses how irrigation expansion influences diversification, a key strategy for food security and climate resilience. A multinomial logistic regression using household level data (N= 120) was estimated to identify drivers of crop diversification. The result of the study revealed that livestock-rearing households diversify less, and instead rely on livestock for income. The barriers to household crop diversification include limited credit access and inefficient public irrigation systems. The findings emphasize the urgency of improving irrigation systems, introducing targeted credit schemes, and adopting subsidy policies that incentivize diversification. Such measures could significantly enhance climate resilience and livelihoods for marginal farmers. This study provides policy insights to promote sustainable crop diversification in vulnerable regions.
References
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