Ecology, equity and adaptation: a systematic review of climate-change and tribal solutions in North-East India (2015 to 2025)

The tribal populations of Northeast India are found in ecologically sensitive, biodiversity-rich areas which are highly susceptible to the effects of climate change, such as changes in monsoon patterns, deforestation, crop damage, food insecurity, and health problems. The tribal populations have their own indigenous knowledge systems that are essential for their survival and management of their environment. However, the rapidly increasing effects of climate change are a major challenge. This systematic review compiled research studies published between 2015 and 2025 on the effects of climate change on tribal communities in North East India, including adaptive measures, indigenous practices, and policy recommendations. Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted to identify relevant studies from the ScienceDirect database. After screening 421 studies using the title and abstract method, 21 studies were identified that specifically addressed the effects of climate change and adaptation measures in these communities. The findings validated the existence of significant impacts of climate change, encompassing heightened vulnerability of forests, threats to conventional agroforestry practices, alterations in resource availability, and jeopardies to livelihoods. Although indigenous knowledge sets the baseline for resilience, the increasing rate of climate change necessitates the combination of traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to ensure long-term ecological equity and sustainability in the region.