Assessing the impact of climate change on women in Chhattisgarh: Health, livelihood, and socioeconomic challenges

Abstract

Climate change is a growing environmental challenge with far-reaching consequences on health, livelihood, and well-being. This study examines the impact of climate change on women in Chhattisgarh, India, where a significant portion of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. A survey-based approach was employed, gathering qualitative and quantitative data from 38 respondents across rural and urban areas. The findings indicate that 97.4% of respondents are aware of climate change, yet only 18.9% reported direct health issues linked to it, primarily heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory diseases. Additionally, 21.1% of women noted reproductive health changes, while 63.2% experienced some impact on their livelihood, with reduced agricultural productivity and financial burdens being the most cited concerns. Mental health effects were reported by 26.3% of respondents, though a majority remained uncertain. Government and health sector responses were perceived as inadequate by 42.1% of participants. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, policy improvements, and increased awareness to mitigate climate change’s adverse effects on women in vulnerable communities.