Impact assessment of front-line demonstrations on productivity, profitability and water use efficiency of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in Tonk District of Rajasthan India

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oilseed crop predominantly cultivated under rainfed conditions in the semi-arid regions of India. Despite its high oil content, nutritional value, and export potential, the productivity of sesame remains low due to the continued adoption of traditional cultivation practices, use of low-yielding local varieties, imbalanced fertilization, and inadequate crop management practices. Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) serve as an effective extension tool to demonstrate the yield potential of improved production technologies under real farming situations. The present study was undertaken to assess the impact of FLDs on sesame productivity, technology gap, extension gap, economic returns, and water-use efficiency in Tonk district of Rajasthan over five consecutive kharif seasons from 2020 to 2024. A total of 85 FLDs covering an area of 90 ha were conducted using improved sesame varieties RT-351 and RT-372 along with a complete package of recommended practices, including quality seed, line sowing, seed and soil treatment, soil-test-based fertilizer application, effective weed and pest management, and timely technical guidance. The performance of demonstration plots (DP) was compared with farmers’ practice (FP). Results revealed that sesame yield under FLDs ranged from 4.4 to 6.6 q ha⁻¹, whereas yields under farmers’ practice were considerably lower, ranging from 3.0 to 5.2 q ha⁻¹. The percentage increase in yield over farmers’ practice varied from 21.78 to 46.60 per cent. The technology gap ranged from 1.05 to 3.6 q ha⁻¹, while the extension gap varied between 1.1 and 1.4 q ha⁻¹, indicating substantial scope for yield enhancement through improved technologies. Economic analysis revealed higher net returns (Rs 21,101–Rs 29,668 ha⁻¹) and benefit–cost ratio (2.09-2.94) under FLDs compared to farmers’ practice. Seasonal water use varied due to rainfall variability; however, water-use efficiency was consistently higher under improved practices. The study concludes that FLDs significantly enhance sesame productivity, profitability, and resource-use efficiency, and their wider adoption is essential for sustainable sesame production in rainfed semi-arid regions.