Performance of the public agricultural extension system in disadvantageous settings: Evidences from Krishi Vigyan Kendras in north eastern region of India

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), the pivotal component of the Public Agricultural Extension System of the country has so far played a vital role in sustaining the largely agrarian based economy of North Eastern region. The present study aimed at assessing functioning of the North Eastern KVKs measured through individual performance of the Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs) working under different KVKs in the region. The sample of the study comprised of 231 SMSs (n=231) from 59 KVKs in the region. A composite job performance index (CJPI) was developed following principal component analysis approach to measure overall job performance of individual SMSs. The findings of the study suggest that there is ample scope of improving job performance of individual SMSs, as a large majority (81.81%) of them had only poor to medium level of performance as indicated by the CJPI scores. Job performance of SMSs was comparatively poorer in areas and activities requiring larger mass participation and production of scientific literatures. A multiple regression analysis revealed that socio-personal characteristics of the SMSs had only little (13%) influence on their job performance; participation in training and workshop contributed high. The supervising institutes of KVKs in partnership mode may undertake special programmes including workshops and trainings in a focused manner, especially in job areas where performance of the SMSs can be improved. It will add to the overall functioning of KVK system in North East region.