Agricultural Economics

Agricultural Economics

The Impact of Drought on Food Security of Rural Households in the Sistan Region

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 agricultural economics department, university of zabol, zabol, Iran
2 Others
10.22034/iaes.2025.2045670.2092
Abstract
The phenomena of climate change and drought, coupled with the obstruction of the Helmand River by Afghanistan, have jeopardized the livelihoods and food security of the villagers in Sistan, who primarily rely on farming and livestock keeping. This study examines the impact of drought on the food security of residents in the Sistan region. The findings from the Food Security Coping Strategy Index reveal that among the rural households surveyed, only 38 (10 percent) are food secure, while 342 households experience varying degrees of food insecurity. The results of the logit model estimation indicate that drought has significantly decreased food security in both rural and urban areas of Sistan. Additionally, there is a positive and significant relationship between the food security index and several factors, including monthly income from agricultural activities, monthly income from non-agricultural activities, income from support institutions and pensions, home ownership, age, gender, level of education, and the employment status of the household head. The final analysis of the variables related to the marital status of the head of household and the number of dependents reveals a significant inverse relationship with the food security index. Given the detrimental impact of drought on food security, it is essential for the agricultural sector to implement strategies tailored to the specific conditions of the Sistan region. This includes optimal management of agricultural water resources in rural areas and the identification of plant species that are well-suited to the region. Furthermore, increasing the agricultural diversity index can enhance sustainable production, which is a crucial step toward achieving long-term food security. Additionally, securing rights to the Helmand River from Afghanistan could greatly benefit the Sistan region.
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