Abstract ID: 3.11711 | Accepted as Talk | Talk | TBA | TBA

Mountain regions worldwide, including Nepal, are predominantly inhabited by indigenous communities who maintain deep connections with the natural environment. These communities, also known as Adibasi Janajati or Indigenous communities, rely on natural resources for sustenance while upholding cultural and socio-political practices that contribute to sustainable resource management. Among them, the Majhi community is distinguished by its unique language, attire, and traditional occupations, primarily boating and fishing. However, climate change poses severe challenges to their livelihoods, particularly in agriculture and fishing. This study examines the impact of climate change on the Majhi people of Kuivir village, Chishankhugadhi rural municipality, Okhaldhunga, Nepal, over the past decade. It explores their indigenous knowledge and adaptation strategies to cope with changing climatic conditions.
Findings indicate that drought, water scarcity, and declining fish populations have significantly disrupted traditional livelihood patterns, leading to increased migration, particularly among youth seeking foreign employment. With limited land ownership and diminishing opportunities in their ancestral occupations, older individuals and women are left to manage agricultural activities, often yielding insufficient production. The Majhi community faces a dilemma: preserve their cultural heritage or shift towards alternative livelihoods for survival. This research highlights the urgent need for sustainable climate adaptation strategies and policy interventions to support indigenous communities grappling with climate-induced socio-economic transformations.