Punjab is a small Indian state that contributes significantly to India’s food security. While the production potential of rice and wheat crops have almost been fully exploited, there is now a stagnation in the growth process, decline in real farm incomes, and over exploitation of natural resources vis-a-vis soil health and water quality and quantity. With climate change, socio-economic and ecological vulnerability has increased and risk-based approaches have become even more relevant. Green growth and sustainable development need to take into account the impacts of climate variability to strengthen policy interventions.
Climate change and resulting climate variability will have an impact on natural resources in the State. Given that the State’s developmental activities are dependent on natural resources, for developing a climate resilient green growth strategy, it becomes important to understand as to what will be the impact of climate variability on the soil and water parameters. In addition, for considering inclusive development aspects, it becomes relevant to understand developmental activities, considering socio-economic aspects and perceptions of communities.
This report brings together a number of analytical components to inform decision-making for:
• Climate variability;
• Soil and water;
• Power generation;
• Stakeholder perspectives on natural resource management.
The analytical framework included three models (climate modelling, soil and water assessment tool, and energy modelling), case studies from field visits, and a comprehensive review of sector-wise interventions in Punjab.