Constraints in Rice Fallow Pulses Production in Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Rice fallow cultivation constitutes the major portion of pulse production particularly black gram and green gram in Srikakulam district of A.P.  Farmers are reaping lower yields of 3.75-5.00 q/ha against 15.0-20.0 q/ha of its potential. Keep this in view an extension study was conducted on the study of constraints and reasons for low productivity in Pulses in Srikakulam District. Ex-post-facto research design was used for the study with a total sample size of 60. Results revealed that the low soil fertility was the major constraint in pulses production (100%), the incidence of yellow vein mosaic virus (93.33), labour scarcity and incidence of low temperatures and fog during the flowering period i.e., the first fort night of January (88.33%), weed infestation particularly vicia, cuscuta. xanthium and Echinochloa (86.67%). Lack of YVMV resistant varieties and suitable varieties (83.33%) and lack of a regulated market (96.67%) were the major technical or situational constraints. Non-adoption of irrigation management (93.33%), non-adoption of seed treatment (91.67%), non -adoption of proper sowing (way of broadcast) method and seed rate (90.00), non-adoption of weed management practices (88.33%), non- adoption of foliar nutrient management in rice fallow pulses (86.67%) were the adoption gaps perceived as constraints. There is a need to conduct more Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) in the farmer fields, more training programmes to the farmers and timely supply of inputs or make available to the farmers prior to the season.