Analysing the drivers of farmers’ knowledge level on cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) cultivation technology: Evidence from Khordha district, Odisha, India

This study was conducted to assess the extent of knowledge possessed by cabbage farmers on cabbage cultivation technology in Khordha district of Odisha and to identify the socio-economic factors driving their knowledge level. An ex-post facto research design was employed, with a sample of 120 cabbage growers selected randomly. Multi-stage sampling was utilised to select respondents from 6 purposively chosen villages in Balianta and Balipatna blocks of Khordha. A pre-tested, structured interview schedule was used to gather the data, which were further analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation, multiple linear regression, step-wise multiple regression and path analysis. The results showed that 78.3 % of the respondents had a medium level of knowledge, while 18.3 % and 3.4 % of them had low and high levels of knowledge on cabbage cultivation technology respectively. Significant contributors to the knowledge level of cabbage farmers included age, educational qualification, annual family income, experience in cabbage cultivation, social participation and innovativeness. The findings thus indicate that certain targeted measures like improving educational facilities, imparting training to farmers, improving extension advisory services and strengthening community-based learning approaches could bridge the knowledge gap among the farmers, thereby ensuring sustainable yield of cabbage and improved livelihood in the region.