Adoption gap in vegetable cultivation

The present research entitled “Adoption Gap in Vegetable Cultivation” was conducted during 2024-25 in Mauda and Kamptee tahsils of Nagpur district, Maharashtra, to assess the extent of adoption gap among vegetable growers, particularly in brinjal and tomato crops. A total of 120 respondents (60 each from brinjal and tomato growers) were selected using a multistage random sampling technique. Data collection was done through personal interviews using a pre-tested structured schedule. Results revealed an overall adoption gap of 45.95%, with the majority (53.33%) of respondents falling in the medium adoption gap category. High gaps were observed in practices such as application of FYM, nursery raising techniques, varietal use, transplanting, and pest and disease management. Correlation analysis indicated that variables like farming experience, landholding, income, irrigation source, knowledge, and access to information were significantly and negatively associated with adoption gap. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted extension activities, improved access to inputs, and capacity building to enhance the adoption of recommended technologies, thereby improving productivity and profitability in vegetable cultivation.