SUSTAINABLE AND ADAPTIVE APPROACHES TO SALINITY CHANGE IN WATER: A CASE STUDY FROM SOUTH BENGAL, INDIA

Salinity is a major environmental factor that contributes to climate change and affects coastal areas. It results from storms and tidal flooding. Salinity is a significant factor that limits crop yields and agricultural productivity. A large number of communities in Asia's mega deltas rely on coastal agriculture for a living. Increasing salinity thus affects their livelihood. The Southern part of West Bengal is facing the consequences of salinity intrusion both environmentally and economically. In that circumstance, the dominating livelihood agriculture is affected severely. The study aims to understand the impact of salinity on local agricultural productivity through focusing on agricultural-based rural communities in South Bengal's coastal region. This chapter aims to provide elaborate cost-effective, adaptive solutions to this situation and enhance crop productivity. It investigates the effects of salinity on coastal agriculture, particularly rice, betel leaf, flower, and fish cultivation practices. This chapter advocates for better farm-level adaptation to mitigate the adverse effects. The chapter emphasizes the importance of developing an Agricultural Adaptation Plan and an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan