Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations on the Productivity and Profitability of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) under Rainfed Conditions in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is an important pulse and oilseed crop, but its productivity under rainfed conditions is often limited by the use of traditional varieties and incomplete adoption of recommended crop management practices. The present study evaluated the productivity and profitability of improved soybean production technologies promoted through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udaipur-II, Vallabhnagar, Rajasthan. The demonstrations were conducted for three consecutive kharif seasons from 2023-24 to 2025-26 on farmers' fields in Udaipur district. A total of 269 demonstrations covering 100 ha were implemented using improved varieties JS-20-34, JS-20-98 and JS-20-116 with the recommended package of practices, and compared with farmers' practice involving JS-335. Improved inputs and need-based training were provided during critical crop stages under actual field conditions. The mean seed yield under the demonstrated technology was 16.06 q/ha, compared with 13.05 q/ha under farmers' practice, resulting in an average yield increase of 23.32%. The average extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 3.08 q/ha, 4.26 q/ha and 19.94%, respectively. Economic analysis indicated that the demonstrated technology recorded an average gross return of Rs. 81,672/ha and a net return of Rs. 56,217.33/ha, compared with Rs. 64,985.33/ha and Rs. 41,238.00/ha, respectively, under farmers' practice. The additional net return was Rs. 14,979.33/ha, and the reported benefit-cost ratio was higher under the demonstrated technology. Farmer feedback also indicated favourable acceptance, with 66.67% of respondents expressing a high level of satisfaction. The study indicates that CFLDs can support the wider adoption of improved soybean production technologies under rainfed conditions in the study area.