Assessing Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Strategies in Pakistan’s Agricultural Sector

Abstract

Climate change poses serious threats to Pakistan’s agriculture‑dependent economy through increased temperature, erratic precipitation, repeated droughts, and intensifying flood events that compromise crop yields, water availability, and rural livelihoods. This review assesses the vulnerability of Pakistan’s agricultural sector to climate change and identifies adaptive strategies that can enhance resilience. Utilizing literature from peer‑reviewed sources, national climate reports, and sectoral analyses, the paper discusses exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity of rural farm systems within Pakistan’s diverse agroecological zones. The findings reveal a high degree of vulnerability, significantly influenced by limited institutional capacity, resource constraints, and socio‑economic barriers to adaptation. Adaptation strategies such as climate‑smart agriculture (CSA), diversification of cropping systems, improved water management, and enhanced access to climate information demonstrate promise, but face constraints in implementation. Policy recommendations focus on mainstreaming climate adaptation into agricultural planning, strengthening extension services, and investing in resilient technologies and community empowerment.