Determination of the Factors Influencing Adaptation Strategies of Tank-irrigated Farmers: Empirical Evidence from Tamil Nadu

Background: Tank-irrigated farmers using tank irrigation systems are implementing adaptation strategies to enhance the sustainability of the agricultural ecosystem. In this particular context, The current research aims to thoroughly examine the various adaptation strategies employed by tank-irrigated cultivators, along with the crucial factors that impact the choice and execution of these strategies. Methods: The data was gathered from 300 tank-irrigated cultivators using a multistage random sampling procedure in ten tank intensive districts’ of Tamil Nadu. The Heckman two-stage procedure was employed to identify the factors affecting tank-irrigated cultivators adaptation decisions. Result: This research found that 83.00 per cent of tank-irrigated cultivators are aware of climate change and 72.33 per cent of them have implemented adaptation strategies. Soil and water management practices (SWP), changing sowing dates and crop insurance were the popular adaptation methods of the tank-irrigated cultivators in the study locale. The model results indicate that adaptation strategies of tank-irrigated farmers are positively influenced by various variables, including age, gender, level of education, access to climate information, availability of credit and ownership of livestock. Moreover, variables such as age, level of education, number of contacts with extension agents and credit access exhibit a substantial and positive impact on the farmers¢ level of awareness.