IIM Lucknow study shows how farmer organisations drive climate action in Himalayan region
On February 22, 2026, a significant study conducted by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow was published, highlighting the crucial role that farmer-producer organisations (FPOs) play in driving climate action in India’s Himalayan region. This research sheds light on how locally led and agency-driven efforts can lead to systemic changes in climate policy, ultimately improving farmer incomes, increasing crop yields, and enhancing the resilience of farming systems.
Research Overview
The study employed a mixed-methods research approach to explore the vulnerabilities faced by farmers in the Himalayan region due to climate hazards. According to Kushankur Dey, Associate Professor at IIM Lucknow, the research aimed to understand the governance capabilities of farmer organisations in evaluating, prioritising, and executing adaptation actions through climate-smart technologies and practices.
Methodology
The researchers utilized various methods to gather data, including:
- Participatory mapping tools (net-map)
- Semi-structured interviews
- Focus group discussions
- Coding of recorded respondent interviews
This comprehensive approach allowed the researchers to capture the complexities of climate-induced vulnerabilities and the role of farmer organisations in mitigating these challenges.
Shifting Climate Policy Focus
One of the key findings of the study is its emphasis on shifting climate policy discussions from reactive and fragmented approaches to more proactive strategies for adaptation. The research addresses a relatively underexplored area in climate action research: the governance capability of agency-led adaptation, particularly in contexts where local power dynamics may complicate adaptation efforts.
Small Wins Governance Framework
The study utilized the Small Wins Governance framework developed by Termeer and Metze in 2019. This framework helps explain how adaptive capacity can be built gradually through incremental gains, referred to as “small wins.” The researchers applied this framework to the climate-vulnerable settings of the Himalayan region to assess its effectiveness.
Findings of the Study
The findings revealed that FPOs, acting collectively on behalf of their members, implemented climate interventions that resulted in numerous positive outcomes:
- Increased farmers’ incomes
- Strengthened local farming systems and their resilience
- Improved crop productivity
- Enhanced collaboration among farmers
- Facilitated shared learning and reflexive monitoring
These outcomes not only addressed immediate challenges but also contributed to solving the “evaluation paradox” often present in climate action policy processes.
Creating Enabling Mechanisms
The research team concluded that the “small wins” achieved by FPOs created enabling mechanisms that encouraged broader collective action and the horizontal spreading of adaptation strategies. This grassroots approach fosters a sense of community and collaboration, which is essential for effective climate action.
Practical Recommendations
The study offers practical recommendations for a range of stakeholders involved in climate policy, including:
- Climate policymakers
- Development practitioners
- Institutions working in the field of agriculture and climate change
By focusing on the governance capabilities of farmer organisations, the study provides a roadmap for enhancing climate resilience in vulnerable regions.
Conclusion
The IIM Lucknow study underscores the importance of locally led initiatives in addressing climate change challenges in the Himalayan region. By empowering farmer organisations and promoting proactive adaptation strategies, it is possible to create a more resilient agricultural landscape that benefits both farmers and the environment. This research not only contributes to the academic discourse on climate action but also serves as a practical guide for implementing effective climate policies.
Note: The findings of this study highlight the vital role of farmer organisations in climate action, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts and proactive strategies to address climate vulnerabilities effectively.
