Impact of Improved Technologies on Yield and Economics of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Rainfed Conditions in Shiwalik Region of North-Western Himalayas

Frontline demonstration (FLD) is an effective means for enhancing the adoption of technology and reducing the yield gaps of the different crops. FLDs on chickpea were conducted in ninety six farmers’ fields in the Shiwalik foothills of Northwestern Himalayas, India to demonstrate the impact of improved production practices (improved varieties, seed inoculation with biofertilizer and deep sowing with drill) on production and the economics of chickpea during 2011-12 to 2014-15 under rain-fed conditions. The improved production technologies recorded additional yield of 204 kg/ha, 170 kg/ha and 144 kg/ha with 28.3%, 24.2% and 22.1% increase in yield respectively, for improved varieties, seed inoculation with biofertilizer (Rhizobium consortia and PSB) and deep sowing with drill. The extension gap varied from 170-204 kg/ha and technology gap from 676-805 kg/ha. Technology index varied from 42.3-50.3%, which indicated further scope for improvement in chickpea productivity in this region. FLDs recorded higher mean benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.08 in comparison to 1.69 for farmers practice. Thus, productivity of chickpea could be increased by adopting recommended improved management practices under rainfed conditions. Hence, there is a need to bridge the gap between technology generated and technology transferred, through effective extension techniques for the benefit of the farming community.