Understanding community perception: A tool for enhanced agricultural sustainability
IGCB Exchange Fellow, Neha Chauhan came to the University of Michigan to work with Prof Meha Jain in the winter of 2024/2025. Neha's study investigates the potential of climate change policies to address barriers to sustainable agricultural practices among Himalayan communities.
The research is based on a field study conducted from August 8 to September 30, 2023, across nine locations spanning three distinct altitudinal zones in Himachal Pradesh, a state in the northwestern Himalayas of India. A semi-structured questionnaire was employed to assess community perceptions of the climate change policies currently being implemented in these regions, with a particular emphasis on agricultural practices. 
Additionally, focus group discussions were conducted at each location, involving an average of 9–10 participants per session, to gain deeper insights into community perspectives. This research is essential for aligning policy frameworks with local needs, thereby enhancing their effectiveness and acceptability. Furthermore, the findings contribute to identifying existing barriers and policy shortcomings that hinder the seamless implementation of climate adaptation measures in agriculture.
