The southern coast of Odisha represents one of India’s most climate-sensitive regions, facing recurring cyclones, coastal erosion, saline intrusion, and livelihood instability. This study aims to identify and analyse the specific vulnerabilities of the southern coastal districts of Odisha to climate change, focusing on both environmental and socio-economic dimensions. Using a mixed-method approach, the research integrates secondary data from IMD, Census of India, and IPCC reports with primary data collected from coastal communities through household surveys and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis to assess the linkages between climatic variables and livelihood outcomes. The findings reveal that coastal blocks in Ganjam and Gajapati districts exhibit high exposure to climatic shocks, with rising sea level, soil salinity, and declining agricultural productivity as key stressors. Socio-economically, the dependence on agriculture and fishing, coupled with low education and limited access to institutional support, intensifies adaptive vulnerability. Regression results highlight that household income, land ownership, and access to early warning systems are statistically significant determinants of resilience capacity. The study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated adaptation planning, improved livelihood diversification, and community-based coastal resource management to enhance adaptive capacity. The paper concludes that addressing both ecological fragility and social inequity is crucial for ensuring sustainable coastal resilience in Odisha’s changing climate context.
Parichha et al. (Sun,) studied this question.
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