CONSTRAINTS AND STRATEGIC SUGGESTIONS FOR OVERCOMING BARRIERS IN THE ADOPTION OF PROBLEMATIC SOIL RECLAMATION PRACTICES

Agriculture is vital to India’s economy, with over 54.60 per cent of its rural population dependent on it. The Bhal region in Gujarat faces significant challenges due to problematic soils, worsened by the Narmada canal project. This study investigates the adoption dynamics of soil reclamation practices among farmers in this region. Using a sample of 160 farmers, the research employs step-wise regression analysis to evaluate the influence of various factors on the adoption of reclamation practices, identifying key constraints and offering actionable suggestions. Findings reveal that irrigation facilities, extension participation, scientific orientation, knowledge, and risk orientation positively impact adoption, while age, education, experience and other socio-economic factors do not. The analysis shows that a combination of knowledge, risk orientation and irrigation facilities explain 37.10 per cent of the variation in adoption. Key constraints include high input costs, lack of organic matter and inadequate knowledge of practices. Suggestions include improving input supply, timely information dissemination and effective irrigation management. This research aims to enhance agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods through informed policies and sustainable practices.