Evaluating the performance of cluster front line demonstrations on blackgram in Chhattisgarh

AbstractThe study aimed at assessing the impact of cluster frontline demonstrations in terms of productivity gains, extension gap, technological gap and economic gains in blackgram cultivation in Chhattisgarh from 2017-2022. Across various Krishi Vigyan Kendras demonstrations were implemented introducing high-yielding varieties like PU-31, Birsa Urd, Pratap Urd 1, Indira Urd Pratham and Mash 479 along with improved package of practices. Results revealed substantial yield enhancements with demonstration plots achieving an average increase of 38% to 62% compared to farmers’ traditional practices. Agro-climatic zones like the Chhattisgarh Plains and Bastar Plateau demonstrated significant yield improvements, underscoring the potential of CFLDs to address productivity challenges in blackgram cultivation. The findings clearly demonstrate that the adoption of improved blackgram varieties and modern technologies through CFLDs significantly enhances both productivity and profitability while effectively narrowing the technology and yield gaps.