Constraints experienced by farmers in adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural (CSA) Technologies

Climate change has emerged as a critical challenge for global agriculture, affecting productivity, livelihoods, and food security. Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) offers a viable solution by integrating adaptation, mitigation, and productivity-enhancing strategies. Despite its potential, the adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural Technologies (CSAT) remains limited among farmers, especially in developing regions. This study was conducted to identify and analyze the key constraints experienced by farmers in the adoption of CSAT across seven agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu, India. An ex-post facto research design was employed, and data were collected from 210 progressive farmers selected through multi-stage stratified sampling. The study utilized a structured interview schedule, and data were analyzed using frequency, percentage analysis, and Mean Perceived Score (MPS) ranking. Findings revealed that financial, infrastructural, and labour constraints were the most severe, with high input costs (MPS = 4.30), high labour charges (MPS = 4.23), and perceived delay in realizing benefits (MPS = 4.81) ranking among the top barriers. Technological challenges such as inaccessibility to quality inputs and lack of improved technologies also significantly impacted adoption. Additionally, slow information flow, weak institutional support, limited credit access, and socio-cultural barriers such as farmer conflicts further constrained effective implementation. The study emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions, financial support, robust extension systems, and infrastructure development to facilitate the broader adoption of CSAT. Addressing these constraints through region-specific and farmer-centric strategies will play a crucial role in enhancing climate resilience and promoting sustainable agriculture in Tamil Nadu.