Impact of improved groundnut production technologies through cluster frontline demonstrations in Bishnupur District of Manipur

Abstract

Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) on groundnut were conducted from 2019 to 2024 across six villages of Bishnupur district, Manipur, to assess the impact of improved varieties and climate-resilient crop management technologies under rainfed conditions. The demonstration sites were characterized by acidic sandy loam soils with soil pH ranging from 5.4 to 6.1, available nitrogen 245-310 kg/ha, available phosphorus 18-26 kg/ha, available potassium 115-150 kg/ha, and organic carbon 0.65-0.92%. A total of 160 farmers participated, covering 80 ha. Improved varieties (Girnar-3 and ICGS-76), seed treatment, biofertilizers, balanced fertilization, integrated weed management, and IPM practices were compared with farmers’ practices. The demonstrations recorded a mean pod yield of 1341 kg/ha, which was 38.28% higher than farmers’ practice (973 kg/ha). The average extension gap and technology gap were 367.67 kg/ha and 288.50 kg/ha, respectively, while the technology index ranged from 4.24% to 35.64%. Economic analysis revealed higher net returns (₹81,582.67/ha) and a superior B:C ratio (2.91) compared to farmers’ practice (2.40). The study establishes the significant potential of improved technologies in enhancing groundnut productivity and profitability in Manipur’s rainfed ecosystem.