A study on managerial efficiency of senior scientist and heads of KVKS in Karnataka (India)

Abstract

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) system, initiated by ICAR, plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture through training, technology dissemination, and capacity building. This study assessed the managerial efficiency of Senior Scientists and Heads (SS&H) of all 33 KVKs in Karnataka during 2021–22, using an ex-post-facto research design and purposive sampling. Managerial efficiency was operationalized across key dimensions, including planning, organizing, directing, communication, controlling, human relations, leadership, supervision, coordination, and decision-making. Results revealed that 45.46% of respondents exhibited high efficiency, 42.42% medium, and 12.12% low efficiency. Strong performance was observed in planning, supervision, and accountability, while gaps were noted in technology transfer, field outreach, and coordination with external departments. Decision-making processes showed emphasis on fact-finding but lower timeliness. The findings highlight both strengths and areas for capacity enhancement among SS&H. Strengthening managerial practices through targeted training can improve the leadership effectiveness of KVKs, thereby accelerating agricultural extension and rural development.