Vol. 10, Special Issue 8 (2025)

Author(s): Rashmi Vishwakarma, Ruchi Singh, Hari R, Biswajit Roy, Aditya Mishra, RP Singh and Priyanka Prajapati

Abstract: Climate change poses serious challenges to smallholder poultry farming, especially in agro-climatically diverse regions like Madhya Pradesh, India. This study assessed the adoption of climate-resilient poultry practices among 110 farmers across 11 agro-climatic zones using a multi-stage random sampling method. Twenty-two practices were identified and scored using a three-point adoption scale. A Climate Resilient Adoption Index (CRAI) was calculated to classify adoption levels. Results showed moderate overall adoption (mean CRAI: 42.48%), with highest uptake in resilient breeds and heat stress management, and lowest in cold-weather feeding. Most respondents fell in the medium adoption category, reflecting partial awareness and limited access to resources and information. Socio-economic constraints and technical gaps were key barriers. The findings underscore the need for targeted training, improved extension services, and supportive policies to strengthen climate resilience in poultry production systems.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i8Sa.2441