Evaluating the impact of frontline demonstrations on rice crops in Ramgarh district, Jharkhand

FLD impact on rice in Ramgarh, Jharkhand

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a key cereal crop in the Uttari Chhota Nagpur region of Ramgarh district, Jharkhand, where productivity is hindered by the non-adoption of drought-tolerant varieties and improved cultivation practices. To address this, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramgarh, initiated a study to assess the impact of frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on the adoption of the high-yielding paddy variety Swarna Samridhi Dhan. Conducted over four years (2022-23 to 2024-25) in multiple villages, the study demonstrated significant yield improvements. The demonstrated variety achieved an average yield of 52.49q/ha under rainfed conditions, compared to just 45.59q/ha with farmers' traditional practices, showing a 15.21% increase in productivity. The study also highlighted technology gaps, extension gaps, and a technology index of 12.50%, pointing to the need for further dissemination of improved practices. The results show that the adoption of Swarna  Samridhi Dhan Dhan significantly boosted productivity and economic returns, with average net returns of ₹64,774.30 per hectare for the demonstrated variety, compared to ₹50300.08 per hectare for local practices. It is also suitable for cultivation in water limiting irrigated and drought-prone areas. Beside drought (reproductive stage) tolerant, it can also tolerate10-12 days subemergence (vegetative stage).The findings underline the potential for scaling up these practices to enhance paddy production in the region.