Impact of research and extension activities in production of chilli and turmeric in Shivamogga district of Karnataka

Abstract

Spices in Shivamogga district in Karnataka occupy an area of 7,358 ha with the production and productivity of 56,327tonnes and 7.66 t/ha respectively. The important spices grown in the district are: ginger, turmeric, pepper, clove, chilli and nutmeg. But the productivity and processing into value added products of spices is comparatively low. By knowing the immense scope and importance authors made efforts through different extension approaches viz., on farm tests (OFT), front line demonstration (FLD), farmers field school (FFS), training (on and off campus, vocational, extension functionaries), seminar, method demonstration, field day, field visit, exhibition and Krishi Mela from 2009-2016 with reference to chilli and turmeric. This paper attempts to assess the impact of research and extension activities carried out in dissemination of technical knowledge in improved production technologies of chilli and turmeric. Medium to high level of adoption score was noticed in beneficiary group compared to non-beneficiary group of farmers. With respect to level of satisfaction, medium to high level of satisfaction was expressed by the farmers about research and extension activities in production of chilli and turmeric. It is concluded that there was a substantial impact on knowledge, adoption and enhanced income of the beneficiary farmers over non-beneficiary farmers in promotion of improved production and productivity of chilli and turmeric.