Adoption of improved agricultural practices for wheat crop in babina block of Jhansi district (U.P.)

Abstract

The present study, entitled “Adoption of Improved Agricultural Practices for Wheat Crops in Babina Block of Jhansi district (U.P.),” was undertaken to assess the awareness, extent of adoption, and constraints in the adoption of improved agricultural practices (IAPs) among wheat farmers. A total of 120 respondents were chosen through multistage purposive-cum-random sampling from different villages of the Babina block. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and examined using percentage analysis, mean, standard deviation, chi-square test, Garrett ranking, correlation, and regression analysis. The findings acknowledged that the majority of farmers were aware of foundational agronomical practices, such as timely sowing and crop rotation, HYV seeds, but lacked the knowledge to make use of advanced technologies like soil testing and minimum tillage. Further findings suggested a weak positive correlation of large farmers having a high rate of adoption, affirmed by the chi-square and Spearman correlation test. Major constraints included a lack of knowledge, high input costs, and inadequate extension support. Physical barriers like unfavourable rainfall, drought, and high temperature are concerning environmental factors acting as barriers to increased yield. The study suggests improving agricultural extension service delivery by frequent and seasonal field visits to farmers' fields, improving awareness through training, ensuring subsidy support to small and marginal farmers, awareness about government schemes. The findings have practical implications for policymakers, extension workers, and researchers aiming to improve wheat productivity and farmer livelihoods in the region thus evolving the overall income and livelihood of the people.