Enhancing Productivity of Pulses: Aiming to double Farmers’ Incomes

Abstract

India is leading producer of pulse (17-18 mt).  It is also leading consumer and importer of pulse.  But even though there has been increase in pulse production over the years, it has not been able to keep pace with the ever-growing demand for pulses. Therefore, to fulfill growing demand and save precious foreign currency, pulses production need to be increased from level of 17.33 mt (2015-16) to 26.5 mt by 2020. In this backdrop study was conducted in Saraikela-Kharsawan district of Jharkhand where Cluster Frontline Demonstration (CFLD) conducted in 70 ha of land on Pigeon Pea, Black Gram, chickpea and Green Gram with the objective of demonstrating production potential of improved technology of Pulse Technology including improved variety, application of Rhizobium for seed treatment, application of sculpture and pesticides of neem origin and identifying various reasons and constraints to reduce yield gaps between research station, and farmer’s fields.

 The study was conducted with sample size of 150 farmers in eight purposively selected villages where CFLD conducted on Pulses among 350 farmers. CFLD recorded higher yield in comparison of farmers’ variety and farmer’s practices. Percentage increase in yield was recorded 150,100, 80 respectively for chickpea, black gram and pigeon pea. Profitability of demonstrated technology also observed increasing on farmers practices with B:C ranges between Rs 8 to 10.  Yield difference with reference to district, state and National average depicted technology gap as well as extension gap over farmers’ practices in pulse production 

Key Word: CFLD on Pulse, yield, profitability and technology Gap