Farmers in eastern Nagaland report erratic rainfall and pest increase as Nagaland University researchers document climate change impacts on crops.
Share
DIMAPUR — Farmers in eastern Nagaland are increasingly reporting possible impacts of climate change on their crops, according to findings from an ongoing research project funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC).
The observations were made during a field visit to the Noksen, Logsing, and Moalenden areas in the Tuensang district on February 21, according to an update.
The team was led by Principal Investigator Dr. Ashutosh Tripathi and Co-Principal Investigator Ashutosh Tripathi of the Department of Environmental Science, Nagaland University, assisted by Nohochem Sangtam, Head, EVD, Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung.
During interactions with farming communities, villagers claimed experiencing erratic rainfall, delayed monsoons, rising temperatures, and sudden heavy showers, all of which have disrupted traditional cropping patterns. Cultivation of paddy, sugarcane, oranges, chillies, and other vegetables has been particularly affected.
Read more local news: Awareness programme on aquaculture held at Nagaland University in Lumami
Foreign nationals entering Nagaland without PAP despite advisories, Dimapur Police warn
Many farmers reported declining yields and increased pest incidence. Shifts in rainfall timing have also adversely impacted jhum cultivation practices and soil fertility cycles.
The NEC-supported project, titled “Evaluation of Climate Change Perception, Knowledge and Responses in Tribal Communities of Nagaland, N.E. India", seeks to document grassroots experiences and recommend region-specific adaptation strategies.
The researchers observed that while farmers are adjusting sowing dates and diversifying crops as coping mechanisms, there remains a pressing need for stronger institutional and technical support to enhance climate resilience in the region.