Zaimila Shaiza and Maitreyee Roy
Abstract
The main objective of this research is to identify the effects of monsoon changes on agricultural vulnerability in Ukhrul District Manipur from 1990 to 2024. This paper has employed rainfall figures, agricultural records, and a survey of 542 farming families to understand the patterns of rainfall changes, monsoon arrival and departure, extreme rainfall occurrences, and dry periods. Results indicate that there is a lot of variation not only in annual but also in seasonal precipitation which disrupts the mainly rain-fed agricultural system. Drought years brought moisture stress, water shortage and lower agricultural output whereas excessive rainfall years lacked only in flooding, soil erosion and landslides areas. Rice and maize yields were very much affected by the monsoon changes as per the result of the study. Farmers have carried out adaptation measures like crop diversification, mixed cropping, terrace farming, rainwater harvesting, and adjustment of sowing dates. However, limited irrigation facilities and continued dependence on monsoon rainfall remain major constraints. The study emphasizes climate-resilient agricultural practices, enhancing water management and fortifying adaptation measures not only to reduce vulnerability but also to improve sustainable livelihoods in this district