Productivity and profitability analysis of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L. through front line demonstrations in Northern transitional Zone on Karnataka
Front line demonstration (FLD) is an appropriate means for demonstration as well as transfer of improved agricultural innovations to the farming community. Under centrally sponsored scheme on oilseed production technology under NMOOP scheme. The constraints in the production of sunflower crop were identified with a major emphasizes against the pest and diseases in the sunflower. The critical inputs required were identified from the recommended package of practices of Karnataka and their usages were discussed in practicing farmer's trainings at the farmer's field. The average two years data revealed that an average yield of demonstrated plot was obtained 15.81/ha over local check 10.75 q/ha and the average percentage increase in yield over local check was 52.87 per cent. The average extension gap was found to be 6.68. The hybrid DSFH 3 and KBSH 53 performed better at front line demonstrated plot as compared to local check. Further, benefit: cost ratio was recorded to be higher under demonstrated plot against local check during the study. Further, average higher benefit cost ratio (2.45) was recorded under demonstrated plot against check (1.96) The yield levels were considerably low under local practices because of considerable variations in the extent of adoption of recommended package of practices depending upon the amount of risk involved in terms of cost, convenience, skill and knowledge about the concerned practice. The productivity was better over local practice under demonstrations. Hence, sunflower production technology have a broad scope for increasing the area and production at each and every level i.e. Farmers, State and National level.