Adoption Patterns and Constraints of Mushroom Cultivation Technology among KVK Beneficiaries in Manipur: A Comparative Study of CAU and NGO Managed KVKs

Abstract

This study compares the adoption patterns of mushroom cultivation technology among beneficiaries of two Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in Manipur, India. Manipur is known for cultivating various mushroom species, with Oyster Mushroom being the most common. It's easily grown with minimal effort, providing a potential source of income for poor farmers and a nutritious addition to their diets, helping combat malnutrition.A total of 120 respondents were selected from KVK Imphal East (CAU-managed) and KVK Senapati (NGO-managed). The results show that respondents from KVK Imphal East had a higher adoption rate of mushroom cultivation practices compared to KVK Senapati. The study identified significant constraints faced by respondents, including unawareness of government subsidy programs (62.5%), non-availability of recent varieties (45.0%), and limited inclusion of recent releases in frontline demonstrations (39.2%). KVK Senapati faced more constraints due to remote location and poor infrastructure. The study suggests that KVK Imphal East's better infrastructure, resources, and financial status contributed to its higher adoption rates. The findings can inform strategies to improve KVK functioning and enhance adoption of mushroom cultivation technology among farmers, particularly in remote areas.