Contextual influences on the sustainability of prospective livelihood diversification initiatives in farm villages in the Karnataka semiarid dryland region of India

Our study examined current livelihood strategies among dryland villagers in Karnataka, India, and evaluated prospective farm and nonfarm diversification strategies for sustainable livelihood outcomes. Using a sustainable livelihoods framework, data were collected using interviews, focus groups, and questionnaires to identify contextual influences on prospective livelihood diversification initiatives in the region. This paper situates diversification within the broader context of rural India while identifying wider influences to present a number of recommendations on livelihood diversification initiatives. We argue that decision-makers in diversification initiatives must gain an understanding of the complexities, influences, and capacities at local and broader levels to promote sustainable interventions.