Exploring perceptions and influences of local stakeholders on climate change adaptation in Central and Western Tarai, Nepal

Abstract

ABSTRACT We explore and analyse the perceptions and influences of local stakeholders on climate adaptation in 2 valleys of Nepal through a questionnaire survey. Altogether 24 and 21 local stakeholders were approached for survey in the Madi and Deukhuri valleys, respectively. We assume multiple factors and stakeholders' perceptions influence the policies and practices at the local level. We found floods, droughts, cold waves and riverbank erosion to be the major climatic hazards that eventually impacted on agriculture, livestock and properties. It was found that the farmers dealt with these impacts based on traditional knowledge and practices, followed by the support provided by stakeholders and neighbors/communities. The major supports provided were mainly on training and awareness, risk analysis, livelihood and financial support, coordination and networking, and facilitating policy formulation. They emphasized the capacity enhancement, appropriate technologies, community-based planning, prioritization of the poor and marginalized, community funds as the top priorities for the communities. The public stakeholders are influential in adaptation policies/plans, whereas private and civic stakeholders are influential in adaptation practices. An issue-/interest-based governance model is effective and sustainable with the active participation of stakeholders. Thus, a shift from the position-based to the issue-/interest-based model is appropriate in climate adaptation in Nepal.