Impact of cluster frontline demonstrations on black gram production in Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir

The study evaluated the impact of cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLDs) on black gram cultivation in Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) from 2020 to 2022. The demonstrations introduced were improved varieties, seed treatment, water management and integrated pest and disease management. Results showed a significant increase in yield, ranging from 58.9 to 62.0 per cent over farmers’ practice. The technology gap, extension gap and technology index were analyzed, revealing the need for enhanced extension services to bridge the yield gap. Economic analysis demonstrated higher gross and net return and benefit-cost ratio for demonstrated technologies. Farmers expressed high to medium satisfaction with the interventions. The study highlighted constraints such as traditional farming practices, lack of quality seeds and limited access to modern inputs and knowledge, underscoring the importance of KVK’s role in technology transfer and farmer education.