Ninh Thuan Research Articles

COVID-19 and Religious Practices: A Case Study of the Cham in Ninh Thuan

With the ups and downs of the COVID-19 pandemic, including waves of infections, the discussion and questioning of how to adapt traditional and religious activities in times of crisis became of upmost importance among the clerics of religious groups in Ninh Thuan. This article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Cham in Ninh Thuan, the role of faith agents in responding to the unprecedented health crisis, and the way they maintained their faith and kept the spirit of traditions and religions alive during a difficult time. At the same time, this article looks into how the religious communities in Ninh Thuan engaged in dialogue about the COVID-19 pandemic, including potential racial or sectarian debates, to minimize misunderstandings and mobilize resources to help each other overcome challenges and possible discrimination. This is a case study of an ethnic minority and sheds light on the flexible and resilient approaches of the Cham to navigate the pandemic and maintain their traditions and practices. This research speaks to policy-makers and provides lessons for managing crises in the future.

Isolation and Identification of Pathogenic Microorganisms Causing Post‐Harvest Disease of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam

ABSTRACTGarlic plays a crucial role in Vietnam's agricultural economy. However, the presence of post‐harvest diseases presents considerable obstacles as it reduces the quality and market value of the crop. The objective of this study was to identify the microbial strains responsible for these diseases through isolation and identification. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to identify six pathogenic species that have a significant impact on the quality of post‐harvest garlic in Phan Rang, Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam. This analysis involved morphological observations, microscopic assessments, pathogenicity testing and molecular sequencing. Fusarium solani, F. oxysporum and Lasiodiplodia theobromae were identified as the main causes of dry rot, while Macrophomina phaseolina was associated with charcoal rot. Moreover, Aspergillus niger has been associated with black mould, while Pantoea sp. has been identified as the causative agent of soft rot. Re‐infection tests following Koch's postulates conducted on garlic bulbs provided confirmation of the isolates' pathogenicity. These findings have significant implications for enhancing our understanding of garlic diseases after harvest, which can contribute to the development of effective control measures in the future.

Peliosanthes epigynica (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae), a new species from southeastern Vietnam

Peliosanthes epigynica, a new species occurring in a dry coastal forest in southeastern Vietnam (Ninh Thuan Province) is described and illustrated. It is distinguishable from any other Peliosanthes by a combination of the following character states: comparatively small elliptic leaf blades, drooping narrowly campanulate purple/violet flowers, and a nearly flat-topped, perfectly inferior ovary with a short straight (non-tortuous) conoid style. Besides data on morphological and ecological aspects, we provide notes on its taxonomic relationships to some other species similarly sharing completely epigynous flowers.

Performance and Evaluation of Hanski 227 Oriental Tobacco in Dak Lak Region, Vietnam from 2022 - 2024

With the results of selecting Oriental tobacco varieties suitable for natural conditions in Vietnam, with potential for raw material quality and raw material production capacity in Vietnam, from 6 oriental tobacco varieties originating from Bulgaria, the Tobacco Institute has been testing in Ninh Thuan province from 2019 to 2021, and Dak Lak from 2021 to 2022. The results of the trial planting show that oriental tobacco varieties are good growth, and are quite suitable for the soil and climate conditions in Ninh Thuan and Dak Lak provinces, and have selected 2 the best oriental tobacco varieties as Basma 16 and Hanski 227. In which, Hanski 227 variety is evaluated to have outstanding prospects due to its good growth ability, high yield, characteristic aroma and good smoking properties. The Hanski 227 variety has less harvested leaves, larger leaf size and mass than Basma 16 variety, so the labor costs for cultivation, harvesting and preliminary processing are lower. To evaluate the ability to expand the oriental area in Vietnam, we continue to trial planting the Hanski 227 oriental variety in Dak Lak in 2023 - 2024, with a fertilizer level and a planting density corresponding to 50N + 30P2O5 + 80K2O (N: NH4NO3, P: (Ca(H2PO4)2 and K: K2SO4) and 110,000 plants/ha. The experimental trial results show the Hanski 227 variety has good growth, high yield, and good quality, with yield fluctuating 1.52 - 1.66 tons/ha, nicotine content: 0.81 - 1.38%, and reducing sugar content: 8.9 - 12.1%, and the oriental material has a characteristic aroma and good smoking properties. Based on the trial results shows that the quality of Hanski 227 grown in Dak Lak are the same the oriental tobacco importing from Bulgaria, Türkiye and Greece. Therefore, the Dak Lak province is the most suitbale region for producing good quality oriental tobacco in Vietnam compared to Ninh Thuan region. Because materials in Ninh Thuan has the high clorua content reducing material quality. In 2025, we continue to grow the Hanski 227 oriental tobacco variety in Dak Lak region on a large area and complete the preliminary processing process, with the goal of producing Oriental tobacco raw materials domestically, with appropriate production costs.

Conflict between Tourism and Conservation at Nui Chua National Park, Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam

Abstract In protected areas, particularly in national parks, tourism management requires a trade-off between ensuring the key values that support conservation and permitting visitors to appreciate those values. This conflict between conservation and tourism exploitation exists in most national parks around the world. Nui Chua National Park is in the most arid region of Vietnam. Despite that, it has a combination of forest, sea, and semi-desert landscapes that put it into the protected area system of Vietnam. Nui Chua National Park is open to tourists for various purposes. As such, the clash between tourism and conservation maintains as an issue at the park. This paper offers some insights about this conflict at Nui Chua National Park and proposes solutions to tackle this matter. The research is conducted using a qualitative approach. The data is collected using expert interview and in-depth interview method. Expert interview is used to extract information from park’s authority and experts. In-depth interview is used to ask the Raglai people who live within the park’s boundary and participate in some tourism activities. The results suggest that the conflict between conservation and tourism exploitation is in existence but not intensively. The author proposes a more scientific approach in managing tourist activities at Nui Chua National Park.

Assessment of liquefaction potential of sand distributed in the coastal area of Ninh Thuan based on SPT values

The liquefaction potential of sandy soil has been widely investigated in the world for many years, especially after the Niigata and Alaska earthquakes in 1964. In which, the SPT values were mostly used for the evaluation of liquefaction potential. In Vietnam, the potential for soil liquefaction has been recently investigated. In the coastal area of Ninh Thuan province, the sand is widely distributed and often exposed on the surface. Additionally, many wind power farms have been built in this area. Thus, it is necessary to evaluate the liquefaction potential of sand distributed in this area. In this study, the potential for sand liquefaction in the coastal area of Ninh Thuan will be evaluated based on SPT values. Two common methods for evaluation of liquefaction potential proposed by Seed and Idriss; Idriss and Boulanger were employed. The research results show that at peak ground acceleration (amax) = 0.07 g and M = 5.5, the sand in the study area is non-liquefiable (safety factor against liquefaction, FS ( 1.48). However, at amax = 0.18 g and M = 7.5, the FS varies from 0.78 to 3.66 for the Seed and Idriss method and from 0.68 to 2.05 for the Idriss and Boulanger method. In general, the FS obtained from the Seed and Idriss method is higher than that obtained from Idriss and Boulanger method. Nevertheless, this insignificantly affects the overall assessment of liquefaction potential. At amax = 0.18 g and M = 7.5, the sand distributed in the study area can be liquefied at a depth of 17 m. However, it is not liquefied when the Nspt is higher than 28 ((N1) 60cs > 20).

Characterizing the Phan Rang Sheep: A First Look at the Y Chromosome, Mitochondrial DNA, and Morphometrics.

The Phan Rang sheep, considered the sole indigenous breed of Vietnam, are primarily concentrated in the two central provinces of Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan, with Ninh Thuan accounting for more than 90% of the country's sheep population. These provinces are known for their high temperatures and frequent droughts. The long-standing presence of the Phan Rang sheep in these regions suggests their potential resilience to heat stress-a trait of increasing interest in the face of global climate change. Despite the breed's significance, a critical knowledge gap hinders conservation and breeding programs. To address this, our study employed a two-pronged approach. First, we collected body conformational data to aid in breed identification. Second, we analyzed mitochondrial DNA (D-loop) and Y chromosome markers (SRY and SRYM18) to elucidate the maternal and paternal lineages. Among the 68 Phan Rang sheep analyzed for their D-loop, 19 belonged to mitochondrial haplogroup A, while 49 belonged to haplogroup B. The haplogroups can be subdivided into 16 unique haplotypes. All 19 rams surveyed for their paternal lineages belonged to haplotypes H5 and H6. These findings strongly support the hypothesis of dual origins for the Phan Rang sheep. This study presents the first genetic data for the Phan Rang breed, providing crucial insights for future research and conservation efforts.

The Integrating Impacts of Extreme Weather Events and Shrimp Farming Practices on Coastal Water Resource Quality in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam

Ninh Thuan is a coastal province in the central region of Vietnam and is characterized by a climate that is the hottest and driest in the country. Vietnam is also one of the top five countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change worldwide. The objective of this study was a thorough evaluation of the quality of water supply sources and the impacts of water effluents from shrimp farms in Ninh Thuan province. The comprehensive evaluation was based on an understanding of the water–wastewater cycle employed in coastal shrimp cultivation. We combined qualitative and quantitative analyses in undertaking this study. Secondary data of groundwater and coastal water from the local periodic water quality monitoring program and national technical regulations were collected in the qualitative approach. We also integrated participatory rural appraisal techniques and field observations to understanding shrimp cultivation and the environmental and social impacts of shrimp farm effluents. The quantitative assessment consisted of measuring groundwater and wastewater contamination from shrimp ponds. As a result, four main reasons for water pollution issues were determined including extreme weather events, shrimp cultivation practices, degraded infrastructure, and mismanagement by local governance. Shrimp cultivation practices (feeding, using chemicals) have resulted in elevated levels of suspended solid (TSS, total Coliform), organic and carbon matter (BOD5, COD), and excessive nutrients (total Nitrogen, NO2-N, NO3-N, PO4-P). According to a local monitoring program, the coastal water and groundwater have experienced nutrient pollution. Groundwater sampling near the shrimp farms identified salinization elevated levels of Coliform from local domestic sewage sources. This study resulted in an integrated approach that evaluated the combined effects of extreme weather events and shrimp farming practices on the quality of coastal water. Also, the finding can be useful in recommending remedial water treatment technologies as a follow-on phase.

Status and impacts to sea turtles in Vietnam

Sea turtles face a great danger of extinction because of human impacts, and the number of turtle occurrence is decreasing. By interviewing fishermen, coastal residents and authorities combined with field surveys in some places where turtles regularly lay eggs, such as Con Dao and Ninh Thuan, the results show that 05 species of sea turtles were found in Vietnam: The Green (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea). Among them, Green turtles are the most abundant and distributed in all surveyed localities; Hawksbill and Olive Ridley were smaller in number; and Loggerhead and Leatherback were the two species with the least number. Only 03 species remaining to breed on the beaches: Green, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback. The Hawksbill turtles used to lay eggs in the past but have been no longer recorded. Con Dao is a home for the largest number of breeding Green turtles. The reasons for the decline of turtles in Vietnam were the collection of eggs and nesting turtles, fisheries bycatch, development of coastal infrastructure and waste pollution, habitat degradation, and illegal trade in sea turtle products.

Spatial and temporal-trend assessment of desertification-sensitive land using the desertification sensitivity index in the provincial Ninh Thuan, Vietnam.

Desertification is a specific land-degrading process, reducing soil productivity and potentially threatening global food security. Therefore, spatially and temporally identifying and mapping desertification-sensitive areas is essential for better management. The current study aimed to (1) assess spatial areas sensitive to desertification and (2) examine the changing tendency of the desertification-sensitive areas over the past 25years in the provincial Ninh Thuan. The desertification sensitivity index (DSI) was computed based on the Medalus model using 10 quantitative parameters, grouped into the soil, climate, and vegetation quality indexes, computed for the years 1996, 2005, 2010, and 2016. GIS was used to map desertification-sensitive areas associated with five DSI classes. Results showed that classes II and III had the highest area percentage, followed by classes IV and V, and class I. The classes most sensitive to desertification (classes IV and V) covered around 13 to 17%, and classes II and III were 25 to 32% of the total study area, respectively. The coastal areas located in the southeastern parts were more sensitive to desertification than the other parts. Over the four examined periods, the areas of classes IV and V increased while those of classes II and I decreased. These indicated that the study province tended to increase in its desertification sensitivity with a severe increase in the coastal areas over the past 25years. The key factors involved in these changes could be related the human activities and climate variation, which could be more serious in southeastern areas than in the other areas.

Proposed solutions for grapes development in Ninh Thuan by Fuzzy-ANP-SWOT

Ninh Thuan is one of the extremely dry regions in Vietnam, and choosing farming solutions in the agricultural sector is one of the top priorities. Research chooses grapes to propose solutions for development in drought because this is considered one of the local staple crops. The study used a multi-criteria decision-making method (MCDM) with a combination of Fuzzy Analytic Network Processes (Fuzzy - ANP). Through the study of published documents and surveys, the study has identified 24 factors belonging to four groups: natural, economic, social and policy and total as a SWOT matrix. Through the Fuzzy ANP model and expert assessment, the research has proposed eight strategies, and the study identified priority strategies for the sustainable development of vines in Ninh Thuan. The results are ranked as follows: WO2 (0.162), ST1 (0.148), WO1 (0.137), SO2(0.124), WT2(0.128), ST2 (0.122), WT1(0.119) and SO1 (0.059). Research results are the basis for helping local governments have more quantitative decision-making tools, thereby helping proposed solutions to be more objective and suitable to the actual situation.

Application of GIS and Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) in Land Evaluation at Ninh Phuoc District, Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam

This study was conducted to assess land suitability (land evaluation) in the Ninh Phuoc districts in order to identify evidence for recommending main crops effectively and sustainably using agricultural land under drought conditions. Results indicated that Ninh Phuoc district had 83 land mapping units (LMUs), with 10 main land use types (LUTs) of rice, annual cash crops, and perennial plants. About 99.2% of agricultural land was classified as high suitability (S1), moderate suitability (S2), and marginal suitability (S3) for most LUTs, while non-suitability (N) lands were very small (0.8%). This study’s land suitability classification analysis has offered valuable insights into the current land use situation in Ninh Phuoc district and proposes sustainable land management recommendations. It has taken into account various land use criteria and assumptions. The study has proposed the following actions for sustainable land use: (i) Maintain highly suitable (S1) and moderately suitable (S2) land areas, (ii) Renovate or convert marginally suitable land (S3) to suitable tree planting/forestation, (iii) Convert unsuitable land (N) to forestry, grass, or plants that enhance soil quality, and (iv) Preserve existing forest areas without encroachment. Specific results in Ninh Phuoc district when applying land suitability classification for future orientation are as follows: maintain 14,859.31 ha, which has high suitability (S1) and moderate suitability (S2) levels; maintain 30.78 hectares of grass and convert 335 hectares to other suitable trees/forest plantations for the suitable marginal area (S3); Convert 122 ha of Not Suitable (N) to afforestation/grass/apply land soil improvement measure; For more than 3700 hectares of unused land, put into use 343.53 ha for growing spice plants, 8.67 ha for rice, 677.18 ha for planting forest trees, 2,691.50 ha for development of pasture and grazing.

Inventory and classification of geosites in the South-Central Coast of Vietnam

The establishment of a connection to sustainability is evident through the expansion of the Global Geoparks network and geotourism initiatives, emphasizing the protection of geodiversity alongside biodiversity conservation. The outcomes of the geosite inventory laid the foundation for the development of the geopark. In the South-Central Coast of Vietnam, characterized by its small and narrow area, intricate tectonic structure, distinctive topography, and unique climate, where conservation efforts are yet to be initiated, the geosite inventory assumes particular significance. The geosite inventory was conducted using four research approaches, which are as follows: 1) Studying documents on geosite inventory, geological and geomorphological investigation documents; 2) Field survey; 3) Expert methods and 4) GIS techniques. The results of the inventory demonstrate how diverse the geosite types and geometries are along Vietnam South-Central Coast. The research findings reveal a total of 90 geosites distributed among 10 geo-theme groups, categorized into 5 types: area, section, point, viewpoint, and complex. These geosites align with 5 primary scientific interests, encompassing tectonics, lithology stratigraphy, hydrology, and geomorphology. Notably, three distinct tectonic units characterize the geosites, with the Kon Tum massif exhibiting the highest number and diversity. Across the eight provinces/cities along the South-Central coast, all are endowed with rare or precious geosites. Despite Ninh Thuan province’s arid climate, it boasts a notable count of 16 geosites. In contrast, Quang Nam province has the fewest geosites (only 6), while other provinces range between 8 and 13 geosites. Remarkably, three provinces – Quang Nam, Khanh Hoa, and Binh Thuan – showcase geosites of all five types.

Use of antimicrobials and other medical products in an ethnic minority context of South-Central Vietnam: A qualitative study of vulnerability.

Despite the global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), evidence on the use and quality of medicines at community level is limited, particularly in impoverished, rural areas where prevalence of (bacterial) infections is high. To better understand the processes that drive vulnerability to AMR' effects, this study aimed to assess social factors underpinning access to-and use of-medical products and healthcare, among people from the Raglai ethnic minority in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam. We conducted ethnographic research in eight villages in 2018-2019, using interviewing and participant observation methods for data collection. Different types of informants (including community members and healthcare providers) were selected using purposive sampling strategies and analysis was retroductive. Our findings show that, despite the existence of a government-funded health insurance scheme, Raglai people's flexible therapeutic itineraries did not systematically start with formal healthcare. Different types of care (private/informal, public, shamanic) were combined in parallel or in alternation, determined by distance to the provider, cost, workload, perceived diagnostic capacity, perceived severity and aetiology of the illness, and trust in the provider. Available medicines were often tablets dispensed in plastic bags containing labelled tablets, unlabelled tablets (in bulk) or tablets ground to powder. Treatment was often considered effective when it relieved symptoms, which led to abandonment of the treatment course. When symptoms did not speedily abate, the illness aetiology would be reinterpreted, and "stronger" medicines would be sought. The precarious socio-economic status of some Raglai drove them in cycles of severe poverty when additional unforeseen factors such as illness, animal disease or loss of crops arose, hampering access to (in)formal healthcare providers and/or appropriate diagnosis and treatment. We conclude that Raglai communities are structurally unable to buffer themselves against the threat and consequences of AMR. Despite this vulnerability, they are among the least targeted by efforts to optimize antibiotic use, which are concentrated in secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities targeted at urban populations.

PROPOSING SOLUTIONS TO DEVELOP SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE TO ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE USING THE T-FANP MODEL

The aim of this study is to propose priority strategies for agricultural development amidst drought in Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam. In the context of drought, the agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to the impact of both natural and socio-economic factors. In order to conduct this research and propose effective strategies, the study utilized the SWOT analysis model via the TOWS matrix, delineating 15 strategies to pinpoint the most fitting approach for the agricultural sector. The study quantified and ranked factors within the SWOT analysis and prioritized strategies using the Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP). The outcomes identified advantageous strategies for agricultural production, emphasizing the evaluation and identification of drought while focusing on market development for economically valuable agricultural products based on primary crops. The step-by-step application of these prioritized strategies aims to contribute to the sustainable development of agricultural production in Ninh Thuan province and facilitate the utilization of a multi-criteria decision-making model in resource and environmental management.

Another new species of Dibamus Dumril & Bibron, 1839 (Squamata: Dibamidae) from Nui Chua National Park, Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam.

A new species of dibamid lizard, Dibamus deimontis sp. nov., is described based on eight specimens collected from the highlands of Nui Chua Mountain within Nui Chua National Park, Ninh Thuan Province, southern Vietnam. Dibamus deimontis sp. nov. co-occurs with the recently described Dibamus tropcentr, but is recorded at higher elevations (670700 m a.s.l. vs. 200280 m a.s.l.), and in a different habitat and microhabitats than the previous species. Our study represents the first report on the near sympatric occurrence of two Dibamus species. The new species can be distinguished from other congeners by the following combination of characters: rostral, labial and nasal sutures incomplete; two to three postoculars; three to five scales on the posterior edge of infralabial; 2225 midbody scale rows; 193225 ventral scales; 4755 subcaudal scales; 115 presacral and 27 tail vertebrae (in a single male specimen examined); and maximum snout-vent length 136.2 mm. We suggest this species should be considered as Vulnerable (VU) following the IUCNs Red List categories. Our study brings the number of species in the genus Dibamus to 26; Dibamus deimontis sp. nov. is the eighth species of Dibamus recorded in Vietnam, and underlines the importance of the country as a local center of reptilian diversity in Southeast Asia.

Preliminary assessment of derived concentration guideline level (DCGL) for a hypothetical contaminated site planned for Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant project in Vietnam by using RESRAD-ONSITE code

RESRAD-ONSITE v7.2 code is used to assess the radiation effects on a farmer resident located in a hypothetical contaminated site planned for the first nuclear power plant project in Vietnam, namely Ninh Thuan 1, after decommissioning. Derived concentration guideline levels are preliminarily calculated for 17 radionuclides that are assumed to remain on a contaminated surface soil with an initial concentration of 1 pCi/g in the protected area of NPP site. For a reliable estimation, the site-specific conditions regarding the geological, hydrological, climate, and occupancy data gathered from the Feasibility Study Report (FSR) and relevant literatures for the Ninh Thuan 1 NPP site is employed as input parameters. The calculation results indicate that the peak of total exposure dose is estimated to be ca. 0.191 mSv/yr at the time of decommissioning, and then decrease over time. Furthermore, the protected site is assessed to be released at ca. 6.71 years after decommissioning under the regulation on radiation protection in Vietnam. Through this study, a radiation exposure model for residents living near the Ninh Thuan 1 NPP is preliminarily established by using the RESRAD-ONSITE code, which are expected to be useful for future implementation of the Ninh Thuan 1 NPP project in Vietnam.

A study survey on molnupiravir treatment in COVID-19 patients at home in Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam.

Molnupiravir (MOV) is an oral antiviral drug that received use authorization in Vietnam for the treatment of mild COVID-19 (F0). There was a need to develop alternative approaches that allowed patients to access medication, decongest hospitals, clinics, and facilities, and protect people from infection. During the COVID-19 crisis, the Ninh Thuan Health Authorities implemented the home delivery of medication by community health workers. This study conducted in collaboration with two important Italian entities [the Aldo Moro University of Bari City and the 118 Department of Territorial Emergency System (118 SET) of Taranto City] aimed to evaluate the implementation of home delivery F0 treatment package assessing the rate of infection recovering during the coronavirus pandemic in Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam. A convergent mixed methods research, based on a longitudinal study with quantitative research and qualitative assessments, evaluated four implementation outcomes: the feasibility, fidelity, coverage, sustainability, and effectiveness of the initiative. Data sources included routinely collected data, a telephonic survey of patients, an analysis of set-up and recurrent costs, as well as descriptive exploratory qualitative and quantitative analysis. After taking the MOV for 5 days, only 35 out of the initial 400 F0 patients remained positive, while 365 patients (91.2%) were negative (CT≥30). Whilst, the successful rate after using the drug during the course accounted for 99.85% and 100% after the entire treatment course, without any death. After 5 days of taking the drug, a positive test result (CT<30) was associated with age group ≥60 (OR=2.7) and comorbidities (OR=3.0) (p<0.05) compared to negative and positive results (CT≥30). Negative factors impacting F0 at home include a shortage of healthcare workers, inadequate supply of thermometers and SpO2 meters, and insufficient financial support for healthcare workers. MOV caused a reduction in the risk of hospitalization or death in mild COVID-19 patients, and molnupiravir was also found to be well tolerated and safe without any major adverse events during the administration period.

Solution of Subsurface dam for water supply

Subsurface dam is a dam system that built in earth’s worb to reserve water and to increase levels of aquifer ground. Region with harsh climate conditions, low rainfall, land is uncultivated, low level of ground water then capacity to provide water is limited. Therefore, subsurface dam is a solution to help to improve the groundwater table, provide water during dry season. At coastal land, beside the advantage of reserve water, the subsurface dam also helps to present infiltration of salt water. This article discusses about subsurface dam, solutions to build the subsurface dam and its application scale, advantages and disadvantages of applying subsurface dams in Vietnam. Moreover, the author proposes solutions for water supply to areas which are shortage of water in Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam.

VULNERABLITY OF RURAL LIVELIHOODS IN NINH THUAN PROVINCE TO DROUGHT

The risk of drought poses a significant challenge to agricultural production in Ninh Thuan Province. Therefore, this study aims to identify the factors that influence farmers’ livelihood outcomes due to the impact of drought. Data were collected from a survey of 231 farmers randomly selected from the districts of Thuan Nam, Thuan Bac, and Ninh Hai. In addition to descriptive statistics, a Tobit regression model was used to identify the factors influencing livelihood outcomes during mild and severe droughts. The results showed that farmers’ livelihood outcomes were generally low. The regression identified the financial (β=0.230 and 0.205), social (β=0.200 and 0.291), and human capital (β=0.195 and 0.196) impacts on farmers’ livelihood outcomes from both mild and severe droughts. During mild drought years, seasonal adjustment (β=-0.009) and migration (β=0.013) were found to significantly influence livelihood outcomes. In severe drought years, government support (β=-0.030) negatively affected livelihood outcomes. There is a need to establish an early warning system for climate change and extreme weather events while simultaneously disseminating information widely to farmers so that they can take timely measures to cope. Enhancing human capital by raising awareness and skills in adapting to drought and developing comprehensive abilities to implement drought adaptation strategies is needed.