Pantnagar Journal of Research

Abstract

The livelihood diversification has emerged as a key strategy for enhancing the resilience and economic stability of rural households particularly in hill regions like Nainital district of Uttarakhand. This study therefore aims to assess the attitudes of farmers towards livelihood diversification and identify the key factors influencing their decision to diversify. This investigation focuses on farmers residing in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, specifically their attitudes towards the diversification of livelihoods. To gather relevant data, a sample of (191) farmers were subjected to both structured and semi-structured interview methodologies. The study findings exhibit positive attitudes towards livelihood diversification. Key economic variables, such as insufficient financial resources and the necessity to alleviate risks associated with climate change, emerged as significant motivators for this shift. Furthermore, social and cultural factors such as familial support and the observed success of peers, were identified as influential elements driving the diversification process. Conversely, the study identified institutional obstacles that impede progress, namely limited access to credit and the inadequacy of government initiatives aimed at supporting diversification. Additionally, personal attributes, such as an entrepreneurial mindset and the willingness to undertake risks, play a critical role in shaping the decisions made by farmers. The insights from this research can be helpful to guide policymakers and agricultural extension agencies in formulating appropriate and relevant strategies to strengthen rural livelihoods and enhance farmers adaptive capacity and develop entrepreneurial competencies to facilitate the diversification in the face of economic and environmental uncertainties