An Integrated Participatory Framework for Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices from the Lens of Climate Change, Farmers’ Perceptions and Adaptations

The agricultural sector faces increasing vulnerability to climate change, necessitating effective adaptation measures to maintain productivity and enhance system resilience. Despite this critical need, limited studies explore the factors influencing farmers’ adaptive responses within specific climatic zones. This study aimed to identify adaptation measures essential for agricultural sustainability in the three purposively selected Grama Niladari divisions (GNDs) known for their diverse crop varieties in the Maho Agrarian Zone, a region characterised by the Maha (Northeast Monsoon) and Yala (Southwest Monsoon) agricultural seasons. A mixed-methods descriptive research design, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative focus group data, was employed. The findings reveal a highly experienced farming community: 34.9% of farmers have over 30 years of farming experience. A total of 96.7% of farmers reported noticing changes, including a shift in seasons (over 80%) and unpredictable rainfall patterns (53%). A vast majority (62.8%) of farmers lack access to agricultural insurance, leaving them financially exposed to crop losses. Furthermore, while younger and middle-aged groups demonstrated the highest awareness of climate-smart agriculture (CSA), there is a strong, consistent perception across all age groups that government and associated institutions are not providing sufficient support for adaptation efforts. The results offer actionable recommendations for empowering local planning authorities, optimising climate communication strategies, and prioritising the development of practical CSA training modules, ultimately synthesising local knowledge with expert insight to support global resilience-building initiatives.