Legume Research

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a vital crop for the agricultural economy in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu. Despite the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s (TNAU) recommended production technologies aimed at improving yield and sustainability, adoption rates among groundnut growers remain low. This study investigates the challenges faced by these farmers in adopting these technologies.

The study employs an ex-post facto research design, focusing on Melmalayanur and Vallam blocks within Villupuram district. A total of 120 groundnut growers were randomly selected from four villages. Primary data was collected using a structured interview schedule, while secondary data was sourced from relevant agricultural reports and publications. Constraints faced by farmers were analyzed using Garrett’s ranking technique.

The study identified key constraints impacting technology adoption, ranked by severity. Non-sremunerative prices and price fluctuations emerged as the most significant barrier, followed by high input costs and inadequate credit facilities. Other notable challenges included a lack of timely and appropriate extension services, insufficient technical know-howand pest and disease infestations. Scarcity and high wages of labor, inadequate processing machinesand delays in the availability of inputs further hindered adoption rates.