ABSTRACT

India faces significant challenges in ensuring sustainable water management and implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to secure livelihoods and food security in the face of increasing climate variability and growing population pressures. This chapter examines the interplay between sustainable water management and climate-smart agriculture as critical strategies to address these challenges. It investigates the current status of water resources, agricultural practices, and their vulnerability to climate change in India. Furthermore, it explores innovative technologies and policy frameworks aimed at promoting water conservation, efficient agricultural practices, and resilience-building measures for farmers. The chapter also evaluates the socioeconomic impacts of adopting sustainable water management and climate-smart agricultural techniques on livelihoods and food security, considering both the opportunities and challenges faced by stakeholders. By synthesizing empirical studies, policy analyses, and case studies, this chapter provides insights into the potential pathways for integrating sustainable water management and climate-smart agriculture to enhance resilience, improve livelihoods, and ensure food security in India.