Background

In the context of central India, and particularly the state of Madhya Pradesh, the project looks at trends related to key climatic variables (precipitation and temperature), and their possible impact on forests. Using agro-ecological zonation, forest cover, ST/ SC population, ground water status and flow of major river water basins as surrogate indicators, the project identifies sample regions for assessing vulnerabilities and impact of climate change trends on forests and livelihoods of the associated communities.

Objective

The project aimed to suggest a range of adaptation measures as risk reduction strategies which were evaluated both qualitatively as well as quantitatively to arrive at an adaptation matrix at different time horizons. Important methodologies for vulnerability assessment in India such as Participatory Vulnerability and Capacity Analysis (PVCA), Vulnerability and Capacity Index (VCI) and tools such as Shared Learning Dialogue (SLD) were used in order to suggest adaptation measures.

Approach

WII implemented this project by carrying out an assessment of impacts and vulnerabilities due to climate change, in the short to medium-term future timescale, in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, followed by drawing up a priority matrix of adaptation options along with an assessment of capacity for adaptation. Based on the assessment and findings from the matrix, a framework for adaptation had been suggested.

Concluding Remarks

Based on primary and secondary assessment, the study provides an insight into the current and future vulnerabilities of the communities in the region along with their current coping mechanisms. It also analyses the broader contours of possible adaptation vis-à-vis the forest and associated livelihoods.

Executive Summary