Yield gap and economics of frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on pulses under rain-fed condition

Abstract

Pulse crops, also called grain legumes, are plants from the legume family (Leguminosae) that are strictly harvested for their dried seeds. India is the largest producer (25% of global production), consumer (27% of world consumption) and importer (14%) of pulses in the world. Pulses account for around 20% of the area under food grains and contribute around 7-10% of the total food grains production in the country. Though pulses are grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons, Rabi pulses contribute more than 60% of the total production. Front line demonstration was conducted on pulses during Kharif and Rabi seasons of 2017-22 in Vijayanagar district, Karnataka with the objective to know the extent of adoption of improved practices and to find out the yield gap in pulses production technology. The average extension gap for redgram was calculated 2.25 qtl/ha over five years, greengram was 2.20 qtl/ha, Bengalgram 3.00 qtl/ha and cowpea was 1.60. The average technology index was calculated was 16.07, 18.33, 31.57 and 10.66 in redgram, greengram, Bengalgram and cowpea respectively. The maximum technology gap 3.00 qtl/ha was in Bengalgram crop and lowest 1.60 qtl/ha in cowpea with overall cumulative technology gap ranged from 1.60 to 3.00 t/ha among the different varieties. Lowest cost cultivation was recorded under improved practices in redgram, greengram, Bengalgram and cowpea by of Rs. 30,000/ha, Rs. 18,000/ha, Rs. 18,200/ha and Rs. 19,000/ha respectively compared to farmers practices. Approach of frontline demonstrations was proved to be effective in increasing the yield of farmers which not only increased the yield per unit area but also enhanced the farmers’ income.