Evaluating the Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations on Adoption of Improved Sesame Cultivation Practices in Banda, Uttar Pradesh, India

Adoption of the recommended package of practices can increase sesame production by 20–30%. To promote the adoption of scientifically cultivated methods, Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) on sesame were organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). These demonstrations aimed to showcase the effectiveness of the recommended package of practices under real farm conditions, thereby encouraging wider adoption among local farming communities. To assess the impact of these CFLDs, a study was carried out in the Banda district in 2021 to investigate the extent to which farmers have adopted new technology for improving sesame production, as well as the constraints faced by them in the adoption of the recommended package of practices. From KVK, Banda, a list of the 178 recipients of the sesame CFLD was received. 50 respondents were chosen from among these 178 beneficiaries, and 50 non-beneficiaries were chosen from each designated area. As a result, 100 respondents in total were chosen, and data were gathered using the personal interview approach. According to the survey, beneficiaries show a significantly higher adoption of recommended sesame production practices than non-beneficiaries. Practices which show major differences in adoption were Organic manure and fertiliser management, weed management, and plant protection measures, showing a significant difference of 0.01 level of significance. The highest-ranking constraints in adoption of the recommended package of practices were non-availability of quality inputs, high input costs and lack of awareness and knowledge. Low yields are primarily due to the limited availability of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, insufficient seed replacement, and farmers' hesitation to adopt advanced agronomic practices that rely on modern technology and precise identification of problem areas for maximising productivity.