Impact of Different Technology Interventions on Agronomical Traits of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Varsha Meshram *
Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Project, Farmer Welfare and Agriculture Development Department, Madhya Pradesh, Balaghat 481 331 (M.P.), India.
Archana Dongre
Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Project, Farmer Welfare and Agriculture Development Department, Madhya Pradesh, Balaghat 481 331 (M.P.), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The study conducted over three consecutive Rabi seasons (2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23) in the Lalburra block of Balaghat sought to promote advanced chickpea production techniques among farmers. A total of 15 demonstrations spanning 6.0 hectares showcased the benefits of adopting improved agricultural practices. This included the use of the high-yielding chickpea variety JG-16, soil test-based nutrient management, and targeted pest and disease control measures. Over the past three years, the demonstration plots achieved an average yield of 11.98 q ha⁻¹, while traditional farming methods produced only 8.01 q ha⁻¹. This leads to a remarkable yield enhancement of 47.48%. Additionally, the study recorded an average technology gap of 6.07 q ha-1, an extension gap of 3.86 q ha-1, and a technology index of 33.36%. The study underscores the effectiveness of advanced chickpea production techniques, increased yield while highlighting the need to bridge technology and extension gaps for enhanced productivity in the Lalburra block.
Keywords: Front line demonstrations, chickpea yield, economics, technology gap, extension gap, technology index