An Adaptive Livelihood Approach Over Livelihood Vulnerability Index: Based on a Study of the Flood Plain in the Subansiri River Basin, India

Abstract

This study examines the socio-environmental effects of sand-casting and frequent floods in the Subansiri River Basin in order to assess climate-induced vulnerabilities. According to the study, households in the area are moderately vulnerable, with a total livelihood vulnerability index (LVI) score of 0.45. Their vulnerability is increased by socioeconomic variables such as unpredictable access to resources and a heavy reliance on agriculture, which is present in 61% of households with paddy fields. Among the specific vulnerabilities are food insecurity, which affects 56% of households because they struggle to cultivate crops because of sand-casting, and poor access to water, which affects 33% of households. Furthermore, 38% of households express psychological stress and PTSD-like symptoms as a result of frequently occurring environmental dangers. To address these problems, the study creates an adaptive livelihood index (ALI); with an ALI score of 0.457, the study region has a moderate capacity for adaptability. To identify and enhance areas in need of intervention, this ALI incorporates elements including food security, water accessibility, psychological resilience, and natural catastrophe response. Crop diversification to lessen reliance on susceptible staple crops, water-efficient irrigation to alleviate water scarcity, and organic soil improvement to counteract sand-casting are all suggested tactics. These actions are intended to promote sustainable development initiatives and increase household resilience. This research offers practical insights for improving livelihood security and resilience among vulnerable people in the Subansiri River Basin by influencing policy on targeted adaptation methods.