Agricultural Resilience in Karnataka After COVID-19: Adaptation Strategies, Institutional Responses, and Future Pathways

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to agricultural systems across the globe, disrupting production cycles, labour availability, supply chains, and market access.In India, Karnataka represents a critical case due to its agro-climatic diversity, dependence on rain-fed agriculture, and high proportion of small and marginal farmers.This study examines the resilience of Karnataka's agricultural sector in the post-COVID-19 period, focusing on farmers' adaptive strategies, institutional interventions, technological shifts, and policy responses.Using secondary data from government reports, academic literature, and field-based studies, the paper analyses how agriculture in Karnataka absorbed the shock, adapted to new constraints, and initiated recovery pathways.The findings indicate that diversification of crops and livelihoods, adoption of climate-resilient practices, digital extension services, and state-led support programmes played a crucial role in strengthening resilience.However, persistent challenges such as labour shortages, water stress, and market inefficiencies continue to affect long-term sustainability.The paper concludes by proposing strategic policy directions to enhance agricultural resilience against future systemic shocks.