Technology Intervention through Cluster Frontline Demonstration in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) in Arid Region of Western Rajasthan

Abstract

During this study, cluster front-line demonstrations (CFLDs) were promoted to assess their contribution to yields, improve technology adoption, and enhance mustard growers' profitability during, 2019-20 and 2020-21, the on-farm demonstrations (n=108) were conducted, covering 140 ha area in Kolhu, Unthwalia, Dayakor, Palli-1, Gajja,Vijaynagar and Siyo ka baas (seven Villages) of Jodhpur district of Rajasthan and these were compared with existing farmer’s practices of mustard cultivation. The improved production technologies consisting high yielding varieties (DRMRIJ-31 (Giriraj) and RH-0749, sowing methods, nutrient management, weed management and use of plant protection measures were included. The findings revealed that the package of improved production technologies recorded a mean yield of 18.4 q/ha which was 27.9 % higher than the farmers’ practices (14.4 q/ha). Comparatively average higher net returns (₹71533/ha) and with a B:C ratio of (4.93) were recorded with improved technologies as compared to farmers’ practices (₹ 51210). Adoption of improved technologies significantly increased the yield as well as yield attributing traits of the mustard than the farmers’ practices. So, there is a need to disseminate the improved technologies among the farmers with effective extension methods like training and demonstrations. The farmers should be encouraged to adopt the improved crop production technologies as discussed in this paper. So the higher productivity and economic returns from mustard cultivation could be realized. Overall, the study highlights the positive impact of implementing demonstrated agricultural technologies in mustard cultivation. These results indicate that the adoption of improved practices can lead to higher yields, better economic returns, and improved cost-benefit ratios compared to traditional practices.