Micro-level vulnerability assessment among agricultural communities of District Kupwara, Kashmir Himalaya

  • 0Department of Environmental Science, University of Kashmir Hazratbal, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Over 90% of villages in the Kashmir Himalaya face moderate to high vulnerability, threatening livelihoods and food security. This study provides a framework to enhance adaptive capacity and resilience in these mountain farming communities.

Area Of Science

  • Agricultural Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Socioeconomics

Background

  • Livelihood and food security are critical challenges for mountain communities in the ecologically sensitive Kashmir Himalaya.
  • These regions often suffer from data deficiencies, complicating vulnerability assessments.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the inherent vulnerability of agricultural communities at the village level in Kupwara district.
  • To develop a robust framework for policymakers to assess vulnerability and enhance resilience.

Main Methods

  • An indicator-based approach was used, assessing 356 villages using ecological and socioeconomic indicators.
  • Data were standardized, weighted using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and aggregated into composite indices.
  • Vulnerability gap and severity analyses were conducted to identify shortfalls in adaptive capacity and potential damage.

Main Results

  • Over 90% of villages exhibit moderate to high vulnerability.
  • 117 villages (33.14%) are highly vulnerable, and 7 villages (1.96%) are very highly vulnerable.
  • Village Hayihama showed high sensitivity, and Kalrooch block had the highest severity.

Conclusions

  • The study highlights significant vulnerability in Kashmir's agricultural communities, impacting food security.
  • A comprehensive framework is proposed to guide policymakers in enhancing adaptive capacity and resilience.
  • Integrating risk perceptions into governance is crucial for sustainable mountain community development.

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