Assessing Climate-Induced Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity of Mountain Communities in South and Central Asia: Comparative Evidence from the Himalayas and Central Asian Highlands

This paper examines the vulnerability and adaptive capacity of mountain communities in South and Central Asia, with specific reference to the Himalayas and the Central Asian highlands. Using a comparative framework, the study combines the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI), LVI-IPCC, and the Livelihood Equity/Endowment Index (LEI) to measure multidimensional vulnerability. A mixed-methods approach combining household surveys and qualitative field evidence is used to analyze primary data from 600 households across four mountain regions: Leh (India), Sindhupalchok (Nepal), Batken (Kyrgyzstan), and Urgut (Uzbekistan). The results show that vulnerability is not explained only by climatic exposure; it is also associated with socio-economic conditions, institutional access, and livelihood assets. Leh and Sindhupalchok show higher vulnerability associated with water insecurity, food dependence, weak infrastructure, and climate variability, whereas Batken’s vulnerability is mainly linked to limited adaptive capacity. Urgut shows greater resilience associated with stronger adaptive capacity, despite persistent structural inequalities. The paper identifies financial access, social networks, and knowledge systems as important factors in strengthening resilience. It concludes that context-specific, inclusive, and asset-based policy interventions may help strengthen adaptive capacity and reduce vulnerability in fragile mountain ecosystems.