Climate change perception and awareness gaps among farmers in subtropical Jammu: evidence from a cluster-based analysis

Abstract

Farmers in the subtropical region of Jammu are experiencing climate change first hand through rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and shifting seasons. This study investigates farmer perceptions of climate variability and highlights awareness gaps critical for effective adaptation. Using a diagnostic non-experimental design, data from 300 farmers across six districts were analyzed using descriptive statistics, perception scoring, and K-means cluster analysis. Findings reveal that while 91.3% of respondents demonstrated high awareness of climate shifts, a small but vulnerable group (8.7%) exhibited negligible awareness, failing to recognize even basic climatic changes. Despite strong overall perception scores (Mean = 52.12), barriers such as limited extension contact and access to information hinder adaptive responses. The study underscores the importance of inclusive, farmer-informed climate strategies grounded in the IPCC and Deressa vulnerability frameworks.