Impact of Frontline Demonstrations on Productivity and Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Bihar, India

Abstract

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is an important oilseed crop grown in the eastern Indo-Gangetic plains of India, particularly in Bihar, where productivity remains low due to weak adoption of improved technologies. The study aims to evaluate the impact of frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on productivity and economics of linseed cultivation in Bihar, assessing yield, economics, and benefit-cost ratio under improved practices versus farmers' practices. The study was based on frontline demonstrations (FLDs) conducted by 12 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) covering 2450 farmers across multiple districts of Bihar over five rabi seasons (2019-20 to 2023-24). The demonstrations were conducted in a cluster approach, ensuring better visibility, monitoring, and dissemination of results among the farming community. The results revealed that demonstration plots recorded significantly higher yields (9.11–10.93 q/ha) than farmers’ practice (6.95–7.66 q/ha). Yield enhancement ranged from 22% to 43%. Demonstration plots also achieved higher net returns (₹25,952–₹44,764/ha) and benefit–cost ratios (2.45–2.99) compared to farmers’ practice (1.98–2.43).  The findings confirm that adoption of improved varieties, seed treatment, line sowing, balanced fertilisation, and integrated pest management can substantially enhance linseed productivity and profitability in Bihar. The study highlights the critical role of FLDs in bridging the yield gap in oilseed crops.