Impact of Front-Line Demonstrations on Taramira (Eruca sativa)

Abstract

Organization of front-line demonstration is most effective tool for transfer of cost effective technologies among the farmers. Taramira (Eruca sativa), a drought-tolerant winter oilseed crop, is primarily grown in the arid and semi-arid regions of north-western India. Despite its suitability to rainfed conditions, traditional practices and local varieties result in low productivity. The primary aim is to showcase the effectiveness of modern farming technologies, identify limitations in production, and evaluate how improved techniques perform across different agricultural settings. To address this, twenty Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) were conducted during the rabi season of 2018–19 by the AICRP on Oilseeds (Taramira Unit), SKNAU, Jobner. A total of 20 demonstrations were conducted using two varieties RTM-1355 and RTM-1351, compared with local farmer practices. The demonstration technologies included timely sowing, line sowing, seed treatment, recommended dose of fertilizers and plant protection measures. The yield data were collected from both the demonstration and farmers practice plots and expressed in terms of per cent increase in yield. Field days and group meetings were organized to give other farmers the chance to observe the advantages of the demonstrated technologies. Results showed a yield increase of 17.68% to 28.84% under improved practices, with yields ranging from 1085 to 1230 kg/ha compared to 875 to 1024 kg/ha under farmers' practices. Economic analysis revealed higher gross, net returns and benefit-cost ratio (3.54 to 4.29) with improved technologies. The results indicate that the adoption of improved taramira varieties RTM-1355 and RTM-1351, coupled with a full package of recommended practices, not only enhances grain yield but also significantly increases the profitability for farmers cultivating under rainfed conditions. The study shows that scientific interventions using FLDs can significantly enhance the yield and profitability of taramira under rainfed conditions, helping bridge the gap between improved technology and traditional practices.