Impact of Climate Change on the Indigenous People of Rajasthan

Abstract

Rajasthan, the largest state in India, is also one of the driest regions in India and its climate is characterized by dry and hot winds. A large fraction of it is covered by the Thar Desert which is the world’s most densely populated desert ecosystem. Due to its geographical position, Rajasthan suffers from water scarcity and has the maximum probability of occurrence of drought in India. The present paradigm is related to the impact of development-induced climate change on the indigenous populace of Rajasthan. It looks at the vulnerability of the state to climate change and reiterates the plight of its primitive, shy and socially & economically backward indigenous people. Very low earnings and lack of access to fundamental necessities of life make them extremely susceptible to climate change shocks. According to Rajasthan’s State Action Plan on Climate Change (RSAPCC), major climate change threats in the state include a decrease in mean annual rainfall and an increase in annual mean surface temperature which would have serious consequences on the indigenous population, livestock and crops as almost 94% of total tribal population of Rajasthan resides in rural areas with minimum technologies and adaptation measures. However, the RSAPCC’s key activities and strategies themselves lack emphasis on the varied adaptation needs and characteristics of the indigenous population. This paper highlights the need of understanding the heterogeneity within the public during policymaking.