Constraints and Suggestions for Improving Technology Adoption in Chickpea Cultivation under Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD) Program in Arid Region

Abstract

The field study was conducted in Bikaner district of Rajasthan to identify the problems encountered by farmers in the adoption of chickpea cultivation technologies under the Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD) program and to gather their suggestions for improving future interventions. A total of 200 farmers, comprising 100 beneficiary and 100 non-beneficiary farmers, were selected using proportionate random sampling from Bikaner and Kolayat tehsils. Data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed to assess input, financial, technical, environmental, and marketing constraints. Results indicated that major input-related problems among overall farmers were the unavailability of recommended chemicals for plant protection and fertilizers at the time of sowing. Financial challenges included the high cost of labor and fertilizers. Technical constraints mainly involved complications in weed control practices and lack of knowledge regarding seed rates and plant protection measures. Environmental problems were largely attributed to abrupt temperature increases during maturity and frost injury. Marketing issues such as lower prices at harvest and lack of storage facilities were also prominent. Farmers suggested that timely availability of plant protection chemicals and fertilizers, provision of subsidized plant protection equipment, and training on improved agronomic practices could significantly enhance the effectiveness of CFLD programs. The findings highlighted the need for strengthening input delivery systems, improving technical training, and enhancing market linkages to foster better adoption of chickpea technologies in arid regions like Bikaner.