Knowledge of farmers regarding isabgol (Plantago ovata) production in Jodhpur region of Rajasthan

Isabgol (Plantago ovata) is one of the important medicinal and commercial crops of Rajasthan. The present study was conducted in Barmer and Jodhpur districts of Rajasthan. From Jodhpur and Barmer district two panchayat samities in relation to Isabgol growers from each district were selected due to highest area and production of the crop. From four selected panchayat samities, eight Isabgol growing villages namely Jagriya, Padiyal, Jaisla, Nokda Bhatiyan, Ajani ki dhani, Jambh Shakti dham udaser, Bhawar, Harpalia were selected randomly. The personal profile and knowledge level of 120 respondents was measured through an interview schedule prepared in consultation with the experts. Knowledge index developed by the investigator was used to measure knowledge level of farmers. The study revealed that majority of farmers were young and middle aged, 22.50 per cent farmers were illiterate, majority (86.67%) were having medium and large size of land holding, majority (84.0%) of farmers were having their annual income in the range of Rs 1,00,792/- to Rs 2,49,208/-. Results also showed that majority (69.17%) of farmers were in the category of medium knowledge level. Almost all the farmers (86.66 MPS) were having knowledge about irrigation management which was ranked first amongst all the package of practices of Isabgol.