Perceived constraints and suggestions of beneficiaries towards the agricultural technologies under crop based module of farmer FIRST programme

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to identify and analyze the problems faced by beneficiaries under the Crop-Based Module of the Farmer FIRST Programme (FFP) in the Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh. The Farmer FIRST Programme, conceptualized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), emphasizes the central role of farmers in research problem identification, prioritization, experimentation, and management under real farm conditions. The programme focuses on integrating Farmers, Farm Innovations, Resources, Science, and Technology (FIRST) to ensure participatory and need-based agricultural development. A sample of 129 farmers was purposively selected from the Lalbarra block of Balaghat district, as this block had the maximum area and participation under the Farmer FIRST Programme. Among the five modules being implemented in the area, the Crop-Based Module was specifically chosen for the study, as it encompassed the highest number of beneficiaries. The research aimed to examine farmers’ problems and suggestions related to various operational aspects such as labour wages, machinery availability, technical guidance, and communication support during the agricultural year 2020–2021. An ex-post facto research design was employed to investigate the research problem. Primary data were collected through a well-structured interview schedule, and the data were statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. The findings of the study provide insights into the key constraints faced by farmers and offer implications for strengthening the efficiency and impact of the Farmer FIRST Programme.