Gender and Climate Change in India

Research Progress

In February, the research team convened in Hyderabad, India to discuss the first data results obtained through participatory focus group exercises with farmers in 4 drought-prone villages. The team planned for the remainder of the project, including the design of a survey tool and the synthesis of research findings from meteorological analysis, institutional analysis, and the field research.

© S. Nelson

 

The initial findings from the field research indicate that the farmers are observing changes in the seasonal patterns of rainfall and less rainfall overall, which is linked to diminishing water resources. Men and women spoke with concern of dwindling forest cover which had in past times of drought served as a source of supplementary food. Coping strategies, such as migration and livelihood diversification, are evident; it is very often the women who migrate and work as labourers (in construction) as men consider themselves farmers since they own land and women usually do not. In spite of both men and women sharing in the decision making process about coping strategies, it is ultimately the men who have the final word. Women are responsible for providing food for the family; however, compared to men, women have limited access to information on both farming options and support systems.