Technological gap in adoption of recommended cashew nut cultivation in Dakshina Kannada

Abstract

The study analyzed the technological gap in adopting recommended cashew cultivation practices in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. The results revealed that farmers exhibited high adoption of certain practices such as use of grafted plants (100%), pit size (100%), and proper planting time (96.67%), indicating awareness of basic agronomic practices. However, substantial technological gaps were observed in irrigation (87.77%), spacing (64.44%), fertilizer management—particularly split application (91.11%)—and processing techniques (87.77%). Moderate gaps were noted in pest and disease management, including tea mosquito bug (32.22%), stem borer (65.55%), and die-back disease (54.44%). Yield realization also showed variation, with lower gaps in mature plantations and higher gaps in younger ones. Overall, while farmers effectively adopted foundational practices, advanced management and processing technologies remain underutilized. The findings highlight the need for strengthened extension efforts, field demonstrations, and farmer training to improve adoption and enhance cashew productivity sustainably.