Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
A Aravind, R Velusamy, JS Amarnath, K Ramakrishnan and B Sivasankari

Abstract:
In India, Tamil Nadu is considered to be the one of the most vulnerable states which if frequently prone to various climate change events like drought and flood impacting agriculture and allied activities. Objective of this research is to develop the vulnerability index to climate change in the Cauvery delta districts. Identification of vulnerability indices is necessary due to the region's vulnerability to climate change and its disastrous repercussions, which will aid local government authorities in creating proactive policies for improved disaster management. The study implemented the vulnerability method according to Iyengar and Sudarshan to evaluate vulnerability for 4 components (demographic, climatic, agricultural, occupational). A hierarchy of vulnerability classification is advanced by using the various sectors in accordance with the various indicators. The study was conducted to assess the vulnerability level of Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts of Tamil Nadu by developing the vulnerability indices during a year. Based on the fractile intervals, the level of vulnerability was classified as less vulnerable, moderately vulnerable, vulnerable, highly vulnerable, vulnerable and very highly vulnerable. The finding of the study reveals that all the three districts (Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam) were in vulnerable stage. Tiruvarur district ranked in first position in the overall vulnerability of climate change, followed by Thanjavur and Nagapattinam district. Assessing agricultures sensitivity to climate changeis a prerequisite for developing and disseminating climate-smart solution. Decision makers and planners require this data to develop appropriate strategies for mitigating the negative effects of climate change and to prioritize sensitive region for resource allocation.