Developing an Integrated Climate Resilience Model for Rural Households in Sindh, Pakistan: The Role of Climate-Smart Agriculture and Financial Inclusion in Poverty Reduction

Abstract

This study seeks to create and validate an integrated model of climate resilience; specifically, how climate smart agriculture (CSA) and financial inclusion are associated with poverty alleviation via climate resilience at the household level. Sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, based on a pragmatic research paradigm and an abductive approach, was used. A structured questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data from 169 farming households in the rural area and Smart PLS 4 was employed to analyze the proposed model. In order to enrich and illustrate quantitative findings, 09, semi-structured interviews were conducted with farmers, agriculture extension officers and microfinance practitioners. Qualitative data was analyzed by thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software. Overall findings integrated results will showcase that Climate Smart Agriculture and Financial inclusion have a strong impact on the climates resilience of households which in turn contributes to the reduction of poverty. The study also focuses on identifying factors in the context which affects the successful implementation of strategies for building resilience within communities in a rural setting. The proposed integrated climate resilience model has not only theoretical contribution in the climate resilience literature but it further puts forth policies for the policymakers, development bodies and financial institutions to encourage sustainable agriculture, build adaptive capacity and reduce rural poverty in climate-vulnerable areas of Pakistan.