Advancing Redgram Productivity: Impact of Cluster Front Line Demonstrations in Wanaparthy District, Telangana, India

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the productivity improvement of redgram under Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLD) in Wanaparthy district in the operational area of YFA-KVK, Mahabubnagar-I. A total of 261 demonstrations were conducted over a seven-year period (2016-17 to 2022-23), covering 104.4 hectares during the kharif season under rainfed situation with protected irrigation. Results showed that with the introduction of improved high yielding short duration varieties -PRG176 and WRGE 97 when combined with seed treatment, recommended fertilizer doses, weed management, and plant protection, achieved an increase in average yield of 10.20 quintals per hectare, compared to 6.23 quintals per hectare with traditional farmers’ practices. Net returns averaged ₹35000 from CFLD demonstrations, significantly higher than the ₹14,230 from conventional methods, though variations were influenced by the Minimum Support Price (MSP) set by the Government of India. The study identified an average extension gap of 3.98 quintals per hectare between the demonstrated technology and traditional practices, with an average technology gap of 14.80 quintals per hectare across the years. This gap varied annually due to the performance of recommended varieties and interventions. The technology index correlated with the technology gaps. The findings suggest that redgram production can be significantly improved through the adoption of improved technologies via CFLD. Therefore, it is crucial to spread these improved technologies among farmers using effective extension methods such as awareness camps, farmers-scientist interactions, group discussions, trainings, demonstrations, field days, and exposure visits through CFLD.