Influence of landholding size on the adoption of climate resilient technologies and agro-advisory services

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a significant challenge affecting agriculture, particularly in rainfed regions where farmers are highly vulnerable to climatic variability. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the adoption of Climate Resilient Technologies (CRTs) and Weather-Based Agro-Advisory Services (WBAAS) by farmers belonging to different landholding size groups in the erstwhile Kurnool and Anantapur districts of Andhra Pradesh. These districts were selected purposively as the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project has been implemented in six villages since 2010-11. A total sample of 180 farmers (30 from each village) was selected using the nth number random sampling technique. Both primary and secondary data were utilized. Primary data were collected through a pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule, while secondary data were sourced from NICRA reports, KVKs, websites, journals, and other relevant publications. Statistical tools such as percentages, chi-square test, correlation, ANOVA, and multiple regression were employed using SPSS software for data analysis. The study found significant variation in the adoption levels of CRTs and WBAAS across landholding size groups. Small farmers showed higher adoption of CRTs, whereas medium and big farmers were more likely to adopt WBAAS. Mass media exposure, participation in capacity-building programmes, and perception of climate change were positively associated with CRT adoption. Based on the findings, key suggestions include strengthening WBAAS delivery through Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), promoting farmer networks for rapid information exchange, leveraging digital tools, and institutionalizing support mechanisms such as seed banks, fodder banks, and custom hiring centers at the village level. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve the adoption of climate-resilient practices among small and marginal farmers, thereby enhancing their adaptive capacity and ensuring agricultural sustainability in the face of climate change.