Impact analysis of cluster front line demonstration on yield and economics of castor under Kutch region of Gujarat

Castor is one of the most important cash crops which plays a major role in increase the income of small and marginal farmers of the Kutch region. To promote the improved cultivation technology of castor with high yielding variety GCH 7, ICAR-CAZRI, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kukma Bhuj-Kutch (Gujarat)conducted 150 cluster front line demonstrations (CFLDs) with an acreage of 60 hectare during kharif, 2017-18 to 2020-21.The four years data stated that the average yield increased (16.34 %) from 2368 kg (existing practice) to 2754kg recorded under improved practice.The average technology gap, extension gap and technology index were 385.5kg/ha, 446.5kg/haand 13.96 per cent, respectively. Furthermore, the economics of the demonstration and farmers practice showed an increased net return of 76,005 ha-1with benefit-cost ratio (BCR)of 2.72in demonstrated plots overconventional plots where it was 62,245 ha-1 and 2.52. Byconducting front line demonstration of proven technologies, yield potential of castor cropcould be enhanced to a great extent with increase in the income level of the farming community.