Impact of Frontline Demonstrations on Cotton Yield through Micronutrient Application in Nalgonda District, Telangana, India

Abstract

Cotton is a vital cash crop in India, contributing significantly to the agricultural economy. However, its productivity is often limited by the non-adoption of recommended fertilizer practices, particularly the application of micronutrients. To address this problem, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kampasagar, conducted Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) over two consecutive years (Kharif 2023 and 2024) in the Nalgonda District of Telangana to evaluate the impact of micronutrients on cotton yield.The demonstrations were carried out in the adopted villages of Yerracheruvuthanda, Nellikal, and Guntipally. In the FLD plots, a balanced nutrient management approach was implemented, incorporating both major and micronutrients. Farmers applied the recommended fertilizer dose of 120:60:60 kg ha-1 of N-P₂O₅-K₂O, along with foliar application of micronutrients at 2 g L-1. The results indicated that the application of balanced NPK along with micronutrients recorded a 11.4% higher yield and reduced the cost of cultivation by Rs. 1,188/- ha-1 compared to traditional farmer practices. Despite this improvement, the study identified a mean technological gap of 9.45 q ha-1, an extension gap of 1.63 q ha-1, and a technology index of 39.7 %.