The Significance of Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change: A Study on Farmers' Perspectives in Sikkim, India

This research explores farmers' views in Sikkim, India, a region nestled in the Himalayas, on sustainable agriculture and the impact of climate change. Thirty two Sikkimese farmers participated in this study, which utilized convenience sampling. Structured, open-ended interviews were conducted to gather data on their perceptions of climate change, sustainable agriculture, and associated challenges.
Qualitative data and web-based sentiment analysis tools were employed to identify key themes and attitudes towards sustainable agriculture and climate change. The findings revealed that Sikkim farmers have been experiencing the effects of climate change, mainly through rising summer temperatures, over the past decade. Altered rainfall patterns have also affected their crop yields and necessitated adjustments to their farming methods.
Sikkim's farmers exhibited a positive sentiment towards the adoption of organic farming techniques as a means to promote sustainable agriculture. They recognized the benefits of organic farming on their health, crop vitality, and the environment. However, limited resources and funding constraints highlighted the need for government support to facilitate a widespread transition to organic practices. The study also discovered that vermicomposting was favoured among Sikkim's farmers due to its positive effects on plant health and crop development. Resilient crop selection and seasonal crop choices were identified as essential strategies to cope with climate change and maximize yields.
Additionally, farmers expressed enthusiasm for employing practices such as crop rotation, intercropping, and companion cropping to mitigate soil erosion and manage pests. They believed such approaches could enhance crop yields while minimizing the negative impacts of climate change on their farms. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into farmers' perspectives on sustainable agriculture and climate change in the Himalayan region. It underscores the need for government assistance and resources to enable farmers to embrace sustainable agricultural techniques amidst ongoing climatic shifts. Furthermore, these findings are a valuable resource for farmers implementing organic farming practices, crop selection, and management methods to adapt to the evolving climate.