Vol. 12, Special Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Traloki Singh, Rahul Dev and Arvind Singh Tetarwal

Abstract:
Castor is one of the most important cash crops, which plays a major role in increasing the income of the Kutch region's small and marginal farmers. To promote the improved cultivation technology of castor with high-yielding variety GCH 7, ICAR-CAZRI, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kukma Bhuj-Kutch (Gujarat) conducted 150 cluster front line demonstrations (CFLDs) with an acreage of 60 hectares during kharif, 2017-18 to 2020-21. The four years data stated that the average yield increased (16.34%) from 2368 kg (existing practice) to 2754 kg recorded under improved approach. The average technology gap, extension gap and technology index were 385.5kg/ha, 446.5kg/ha and 13.96%, respectively. Furthermore, the economics of the demonstration and farmers' practice showed an increased net return of Rs. 76,005 ha^-1 with benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.72 in demonstrated plots over conventional plots where it was Rs.62, 245 ha^-1 and 2.52. By conducting frontline demonstrations of proven technologies, the yield potential of castor crops could be greatly enhanced with the increase in the income level of the farming community.