Impact of frontline demonstration on yield enhancement of turmeric in Darrang District of Assam

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Darrang conducted thirty four demonstrations during 2015-16 to 2017-18 in different villages of Darrang district of Assam to disseminate the production technology of high yielding (243.6q/ha) Turmeric variety Megha Turmeric 1 having high curcumin content (6.8%). The critical inputs were identified in existing production technology through meetings and discussions with farmers. Lack of knowledge on high yielding varieties, uneven plant population, uncontrolled weeds, ignorance about fertilizers and lack of plant protection measures were the predominant identified causes of low productivity of turmeric crop in Darrang district. Farmers training were conducted to ensure rhizome treatment, application of balanced fertilizer, irrigation and timely plant protection measures. These activities ensured higher yield over local practices in the range of 11.1 to 12.9 per cent. An average net profit of Rs 909025/- was recorded under recommended practice while it was Rs 649050/- under farmers’ practice. Benefit/cost ratio ranged from 5.59 to 7.3 under demonstration while it ranged between 4.76 to 6.1 under control plots. The results clearly indicate the positive effects of FLDs over existing local practices.