Adoption behavioural of farmers towards improved sesame production technologies

Abstract

The present study examined the adoption behaviour of farmers towards improved Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) production technologies in Ramgarh district of Jharkhand. The investigation was carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramgarh, through Front Line Demonstrations during the agricultural years 2023-24 and 2024-25 in selected villages, namely Udlu, Lipya, Bicha Kodi, Bhudhakhap, Korambey, Lodhma, Sandeeh Tillaiya, and Indrabad. A total of 220 sesame growers were selected, and data were collected using a pre-tested structured interview schedule. Adoption behaviour was assessed for recommended practices such as improved varieties, seed rate, seed treatment, time of sowing, nutrient management, weed management, plant protection measures, and harvesting practices using an adoption index. Based on mean and standard deviation, farmers were categorized into low, medium, and high adoption levels. The results revealed that the majority of farmers (61.20%) belonged to the low adoption category, followed by medium (26.00%) and high (12.80%) adoption categories. Higher adoption was observed for harvesting at proper time, use of high-yielding varieties, and recommended seed rate, whereas lower adoption was noted for seed treatment, bio fertilizer use, balanced fertilizer application, line sowing, weed management, and plant protection measures. Major constraints perceived by farmers included non-availability of quality seed, high cost of fertilizers, weed infestation, and inadequate market and resource support. The study emphasizes the need for strengthening extension interventions, ensuring timely availability of quality inputs, and enhancing capacity-building programmes to improve adoption of improved sesame production technologies and thereby increase productivity and income of sesame growers in the region