Determinants of Climate Change Preparedness Behaviour among Women Dairy Farmers in Haryana, India

Abstract

Climate change creates major challenges for dairy production by disrupting livestock productivity, forage availability, water resources, and animal health. Therefore, preparedness is crucial for protecting dairy-related livelihoods from climate change. This study examines climate change preparedness among women dairy farmers in Haryana and identifies key factors that influence their ability to adapt. A total of 360 women respondents from 18 villages in the Karnal, Hisar, and Sirsa districts were surveyed using a random sampling method. Preparedness was measured using a structured scale of climate-resilient dairy management practices, and the underlying factors were analysed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. The results show a moderate level of preparedness among respondents. Specifically, 45.00% demonstrated medium preparedness, 33.33% had low preparedness, and only 21.67% had high preparedness. The regression analysis revealed that preparedness was significantly associated with several socio-economic factors, such as family education, landholding, dairy farming experience, and resource control. Access to information, including extension contacts, mass media, and climate data, and cognitive traits such as risk orientation, climate awareness, and proactive attitudes also played significant roles. These findings point to the urgent need to strengthen climate information services, broaden extension support, and implement capacity-building programmes that enhance women’s knowledge and access to agricultural resources.