Low-carbon agricultural practices enhance climate resilience and food security in India

Abstract Low-carbon agricultural (LCA) practices, including nutrient, water, and soil management, present viable strategies for mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while enhancing agricultural productivity. However, their long-term impacts on food security and emission reduction at the national scale require further investigation. This study employs scenario-based analysis to assess the role of LCA in reducing carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane emissions while evaluating its effects on food production, accessibility, and availability in India. By conceptualizing LCA as a baseline scenario, the study examines the influence of technology adoption, government policies, and sustainable agricultural practices in enhancing food security and mitigating climate change. A systematic literature review, following the PRISMA protocol, was conducted using keyword co-occurrence analysis from major global databases, including Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and government and organizational sources. The findings indicate that efficient resource and nutrient management significantly strengthen food security while reducing annual GHG emissions, supporting India’s progress toward food self-sufficiency and climate resilience. These insights provide a foundation for strengthening national and global food policies and climate mitigation strategies, aligning with multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). This study underscores the critical role of LCA in integrating food security with environmental sustainability, offering a policy-driven approach to climate adaptation and sustainable agricultural development in India.