Vol. 10, Special Issue 9 (2021)

Author(s):
BR Madhushekar, G Narendar and Dr. K Avil Kumar

Abstract:
The present investigation was carried out in Nalgonda district to study the impact of FLDs conducted during 2016-17 to 2018-19 in rice with drum seeder in puddled conditions. DAATTC promoted this technology in different villages through On-farm trials, Frontline demonstrations, Training programmes, Field days and Exposure visits since its introduction in 2016-17. Conventional method of cultivating rice i.e., transplanting under tanks and canals is common. Nurseries are laid from June last week in anticipation of rain water and as rains are delayed over-aged seedlings are transplanted. It would be advantageous, if transplanting could be substituted by a low-cost method of crop establishment which can give on par results. Drum seeding is one of the viable options, a process of establishing rice crop from seeds sown in the field. It offers advantages like labour saving, less water, energy, time, less drudgery, early crop maturity, low production cost etc. The study indicated that Average highest yield recorded was 6870 kg/ha in demonstration plot over control (6260.2 kg/ha) and an average additional yield of 609.8 kg/ha was observed, 9.74% of average yield increase over control plot. The extension gap ranged from 574.6 kg/ha to 675 kg/ha where as technology gap was 150 to 625 kg/ha respectively, with technology index of 5.24% during the demonstration years. The demonstrated plots gave higher gross returns with higher benefit cost ratio compared to farmer’s practice. A gap existed in potential yield and demonstration yield due to soil fertility and weather aberrations. The horizontal spread has increased by 136%.