An assessment of extension, technological gaps and income augmentation through participatory cluster front line demonstrations on chickpea (Cicer arietinum) in Rajasthan

Abstract

From 2015 to 2020, 13134 Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLDs) on chickpea were conducted in 5417.45 ha area by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of the Rajasthan state under National Food Security Mission (NFSM). The data were solicited from partner farmers in the participatory approach. The study shows a higher yield of 17.94q/ha over farmers’ practice (13.71q/ha). The technology gap of 5.75q/ha, extension gap of 4.23q/ha, and technology index of 24.27% observed. An average, additional yield of 4.23q/ha was observed in CFLDs. Consequently, Rs. 15337/ha has been added through CFLDs during the five years. In a nutshell, it constituted a total of Rs. 8.38 crores in the economy of Rajasthan. The yields of CFLDs surpassed the results of Rajasthan by 7.02q/ ha and national yield by 7.53q/ha. The identified technology gaps attributed to the dissimilarity in soil fertility status and weather conditions. Hence, the adoption of the integrated crop management practices could fulfill these extension gaps. Scientists of KVKs should adopt location-specific extension methodologies for approaching partner farmers. Moreover, a lower value of the technology index indicates greater technology feasibility in the particular district.