Popularization of improved Mustard production technology through frontline demonstrations in Mid-Western plain zone of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Mustard is one of the most important oilseeds crop in India, which plays a major role in supplementing the income of small and marginal farmers in Mid Western Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh. One of the major constraints of traditional mustard farming is low productivity due to non-adoption of recommended package of practices and improved varieties. Frontline demonstration (FLD) is one of the most powerful tools for transfer of technology. Keeping in view of an effective extension approach of FLDs for popularization of improved mustard production technology by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Budaun under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agricultural & Technology, Meerut (UP) were conducted at farmer’s fields. The impact assessment was based on the comparison of beneficiary and non-beneficiary respondents with reference to increase in knowledge level of beneficiary farmers, extent of adoption of improved mustard production technologies and attitude of beneficiary farmers towards FLDs. Cultivation practices comprised under FLD viz., use of improved variety, line sowing, balanced application of fertilizers, timely weed management and control of insect-pest through insecticide -pesticides at economic threshold level showed that the yield of mustard increased from 19.66 to 26.14 per cent over farmer’s practice during the demonstration period from 2008-09 to 2010-11. The technology gap was observed minimum (457 kg/ha) during 2009-10 and maximum (685 kg/ha) in the year 2010-11. The demonstrations fetched higher average additional return (Rs.4713/ha) and C: B ratio (0.14) along with high (52.22%) to medium (28.33%) extent of farmer’s satisfaction.