Impact of Cluster Front-Line Demonstration on Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
U. G. Thakare
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Akola, India.
K. M. Deshmukh *
Special Project on Cotton, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Akola, India.
Snehal V. Pawar
Special Project on Cotton, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Akola, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a vital oilseed crop in India, yet its productivity remains below potential due to poor adoption of improved technologies. To address this gap, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Akola, conducted 225 Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) across five consecutive years (2018–2022) to evaluate the impact of improved production technologies—specifically using the high-yielding variety TAG-24 alongside recommended agronomic practices—compared to traditional farmers' practices. The results indicated that the demonstrated plots achieved a yield ranging from 1440 to 1726 kg/ha, recording a yield increase of 14.29% to 38.02% (mean 22.76%) over local checks. The technology gap varied from 224 to 510 kg/ha, while the extension gap ranged from 180 to 419 kg/ha. The technology index averaged 18.74% (ranging from 11.49% to 26.15%), reflecting good adaptability and feasibility of the demonstrated technologies under field conditions. Economic analysis revealed enhanced profitability, with the benefit-cost (B:C) ratio ranging from 1.21 to 1.83 (mean 1.49) in demonstration plots compared to 1.02 to 1.27 (mean 1.08) under farmers' practices. Overall, the CFLDs significantly improved productivity and profitability of groundnut cultivation, highlighting the technical feasibility and economic viability of the demonstrated technologies. Strengthening extension activities and promoting large-scale adoption can bridge yield gaps and enhance self-reliance in edible oil production.
Keywords: Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD), groundnut, oilseeds, yield increase, technology gap