Assessment of yield gaps and income augmentation through participatory cluster front-line demonstrations on Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) in Rajasthan

Abstract

Present study assessed the yield gaps and income augmentation of 15670 CFLDs on Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)
for the period 2015 to 2020 in 5417.45 hectares (ha) through the Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in Rajasthan state. The
researcher found the yield of CFLDs higher (18.59q/ha) than farmers’ practices (14.70q/ha). The study depicted, the
technology gap of 7.54q/ha, the extension gap of 3.89q/ha, and a technology index of 28.26%. The CFLDs realized an
additional yield of 3.89q/ha. Subsequently, Rs.15337.00/ha is supplemented, making a total of Rs.9.63 crores. The yields
of CFLDs surpassed the state yield by 7.02q/ha and the national yield by 7.53q/ha. The identified technology gaps are
attributed to dissimilarity in soil fertility status, weather conditions, and climate vulnerability. However, the adoption of
integrated crop management practices could reduce the extension gaps in Indian mustard. Therefore, the professionals
of KVKs should adopt location-specific extension methodologies for approaching partner farmer’s for enhancing the
yield and production of Indian mustard in Rajasthan. Moreover, the lower value of the technology index indicates
greater technology feasibility in the particular district.