Impact of Constraints, Technological Gaps and Improved Production Practices on Yield and Economics of Greengram in Arid Regions

Abstract

Low adoption of improved crop production technologies has been an important factor in reducing the income, increasing poverty and reducing socio-economic status of the farmers in the arid region. Greengram is one of the important pulse crop mainly grown during kharif season in rainfed conditions of Rajasthan. Apart from harsh agro-climatic and poor edaphic factors, non- adoption of innovative production technologies is one of the utmost important amenable factors for low yield in the region. Over a period of time, a number of improved crop production technologies have been developed, but due to many constraints and low adoption, full potential of the technologies could not be exploited. As a result, a large gap exists between potential yield and actual yield. There is a need to address various issues and factors, which helps to limit the crop productivity. The present study conducted at the farmer’s field in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan indicated that most of the respondents stated that low returns from crop production, high cost of inputs, lack of knowledge and processing industry were the major constraints and technological index varied between 44 to 48%. The results of the study also showed gaps in the use of high-yielding varieties, recommended doses of fertilizers and plant protection measures in greengram. Demonstration of high yielding varieties of greengram (RMG 62 and RMG 268), recommended dose of fertilizers (20 kg N+50 kg P2O5/ha) and plant protection measures (metasystox 750 ml/ha) considerably increased seed yield, net returns, B: C ratio and additionally income over farmer’s practice. Use of high yielding variety (RMG 62), recommended dose of fertilizers and plant protection measures increased seed yield and net returns by 42.5 and 63.8%, respectively over farmer’s practice. The study suggests that addressing the socio-economic issues and constraints that affect the adoption of improved production technologies are paramount. In addition, there is a need for knowledge extension of better production technologies to achieve higher yield and economic returns by greengram cultivation in the arid region.