Manuscript Title:

ENHANCING CLIMATE RESILIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES: THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION WORKERS IN DISTRICT RAHIM YAR KHAN, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Author:

HAFIZ ALI RAZA, MADIHA NAZ, MADIEHA AKRAM, SAIMA AFZAL, FAHEEM KHAN, MUHAMMAD SALEEM, SYED MUHAMMAD WAQAR AHSAN

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.8385037

Published : 2023-09-23

About the author(s)

1. HAFIZ ALI RAZA - Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural Development, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
2. MADIHA NAZ - Department of Sociology, Riphah International University Faisalabad campus.
3. MADIEHA AKRAM - Department of Sociology, The Women University, Multan.
4. SAIMA AFZAL - Department of Sociology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan.
5. FAHEEM KHAN - Department of Agricultural Extension, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
6. MUHAMMAD SALEEM - Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural Development, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
7. SYED MUHAMMAD WAQAR AHSAN - Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural Development, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.

Full Text : PDF

Abstract

In recent years, the intricate relationship between climate change and its profound impact on agricultural productivity has garnered increasing attention, particularly concerning the pivotal role played by agricultural extension workers. This study delves into climate change mitigation strategies within the realm of agriculture, with a specific focus on the instrumental contributions of agricultural extension workers. Climate change presents a multifaceted challenge to global agricultural systems, exerting significant influences on productivity, crop yields, and food production. Amid these challenges, agricultural extension workers emerge as central figures bridging the chasm between technical knowledge and practical adaptation methods for farmers. This qualitative investigation draws upon a synthesis of existing research and incorporates insights from key informant interviews. By shedding light on the intricate interplay between climate change, agricultural productivity, and the pivotal function of agricultural extension workers, this research aspires to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic relationships between these variables. By facilitating the adoption of climate-resilient techniques, such as cultivating drought-resistant crop varieties, implementing water-efficient irrigation methods, and promoting agroforestry, extension workers empower farmers to mitigate the severe impacts of climate change. Furthermore, extension workers play a pivotal role in bolstering farmers' adaptive capabilities and equipping them with essential skills to navigate increasingly volatile climatic conditions. Studies underscore that farmers who receive training from extension workers report heightened confidence in successfully implementing climate- adaptive strategies.


Keywords

Climate Change, Agricultural Productivity, Agricultural Extension Workers, Adaptation Strategies, Food Security, Climate-Smart Practices.