Impact of Climate Change on Traditional Livelihoods in Kashmir

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to traditional livelihoods worldwide, and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is no exception. This research article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on the traditional livelihoods of farmers and artisans in Kashmir Valley. It delves into these communities’ challenges, including altered weather patterns, soil degradation, water scarcity, and threats to cultural heritage. It also discusses adaptive strategies to mitigate these impacts, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices, policy support, and community engagement.

Introduction

The Kashmir Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional industries such as agriculture and handicrafts. The region’s economy heavily relies on these sectors, which have been developed and refined over centuries. However, the escalating impacts of climate change are disrupting these traditional livelihoods, threatening not only the economic stability of the region but also its cultural fabric.

Climate change manifests in Kashmir through increasing temperatures, erratic precipitation patterns, and the heightened frequency of extreme weather events. These changes have far-reaching implications for the region’s ecology and the socio-economic well-being of its inhabitants. Unprecedented environmental conditions now challenge the traditional knowledge systems that have sustained livelihoods for generations.

This research article examines the specific ways in which climate change is affecting farmers and artisans in Kashmir. By analysing the challenges and exploring potential adaptive strategies, the research article aims to comprehensively understand the situation and suggest pathways for resilience and sustainability.