Abstract:
Paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka is highly dependent on rainfall patterns, economic resources and
temperature changes. Changes of these factors influence the adaptability of agriculture. This
research evaluated farmers’ awareness of changing rainfall patterns, their impacts on cultivation
and the adaptation strategies employed. The study was conducted in two Divisional Secretariat
(DS) Divisions, Kuliyapitiya West and Kurunegala, in the Kurunegala District, using a multistage
sampling method to select 100 paddy farmers. Data were collected through a structured
questionnaire covering demographic factors, cultivation practices, observations of rainfall
pattern, impacts on yield, adaptation strategies and challenges faced. Statistical analysis was
performed using SPSS software. Results showed that years of farming experience did not
significantly influence farmers’ awareness of rainfall variability, adoption of adaptation
strategies, or the type of government support (fertilizer, seeds, plant protect chemical) requested.
Independent t-tests comparing adopters and non-adopters of strategies such as adjusting
planting time, using resistant varieties and water management yielded p-values greater than 0.43,
indicating no significant differences. A one-way ANOVA examining farming experience among
farmers requesting fertilizer subsidies, high-quality seeds, cash assistance, or other aid showed
no significant variation (F (3,41) = 2.747, p = 0.055), with post hoc tests confirming similarity (p
= 0.069). Most farmers reported irregular rainfall and yield reductions. The main barriers to
effective adaptation were limited financial resources and technical knowledge, restricting
farmers’ ability to invest in necessary inputs for paddy cultivation. Overall awareness of rainfall
variability and the responses to it were consistent among farmers, regardless of their level of
experience. The study highlights the urgent need for government involvement, improved access
to climate information and farmer training programs to mitigate the adverse effects of rainfall
variability on paddy cultivation.
