Assessment of Technology Adoption in Chickpea Cultivation under Cluster Front Line Demonstrations by Farmers of Bikaner, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

The adoption of improved agricultural technologies is crucial for enhancing productivity and ensuring food security. This study aimed to evaluate the adoption of chickpea cultivation technologies under the Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLD) program organized by KVK Bikaner-I in Rajasthan. Focusing on the comparison between beneficiary farmers (who participated in CFLD) and non-beneficiary farmers (who did not), the study aimed to assess the impact of CFLD interventions on the adoption of chickpea cultivation practices. A total of 200 farmers were selected, consisting of 100 beneficiary and 100 non-beneficiary farmers. Structured interviews were conducted to assess the extent of adoption across various technological aspects, including seed treatment, irrigation management, improved varieties, and plant protection measures. The findings revealed that beneficiary farmers had higher adoption levels, with 90.00% adopting technologies at medium to high levels, compared to 59.00% of non-beneficiary farmers. The study indicated that exposure to training, mass media, and continuous interaction with extension agencies significantly influenced the adoption rates. Significant differences were found between beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers in the adoption of specific technologies such as seed treatment and plant protection measures. The study concluded that CFLDs effectively promoted the adoption of chickpea technologies, but future efforts should focus on improving non-beneficiary farmers’ access to extension services and addressing adoption gaps in areas such as nutrient management and storage practices.