Constructing a knowledge test to assess the knowledge level of extension functionaries and devising future extension strategies for promotion of organic farming in india

The ill effect of intensive chemical based agricultural system has drawn widespread criticism from different sections of society and the organic farming in the country has witnessed significant popularity in last few years. The growth has also been accompanied by technological developments in the organic sector, where new technologies such automatic milking systems, robot-based weed control systems, and the development of new organic fertilizers and plant breeding, are widely accepted across the globe. In this context the present study was conceptualized to assess the knowledge level of extension functionaries in organic farming, their future training need and documenting future extension strategies for promoting organic farming in the country with 30 extension officials from 7 states. The study develop a knowledge test of 20 items with difficulty index between 0.30 to 0.95, discrimination capacity (>0.30) and point bi-serial value (>0.25) and reliability (0.71). It is found that the extension functionaries had more knowledge on applied aspect of organic farming than theoretical aspect. Majority of the respondents (43.33%) had high training need for bio-fertilizer preparation (X=3.07) followed by organic pest and disease management technologies/practices (X=2.77, 23.33%). The study revealed that the educating the farmers on organic farming and building their confidence on organic farming (X=3.57) was ranked as the most important strategy for promoting organic farming in the country. The findings of the study will be of immense help to the policy maker for successful implementation of any organic mission and policies.