International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
G Charan Tej, P Vijaya Lakshmi, B Savitha and A Meena

abstract
India's population, set to reach a staggering 2.0 billion by 2050, amplifies the challenges of meeting heightened demands for food and energy. The consequences of this surge extend to elevated risks of hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and social instability. Urban migration compounds these issues, transforming arable land into residential spaces, and intensifying the strain on natural resources. Amidst this, the proliferation of multi-story constructions limits space for cultivating household vegetables. While population control remains a gradual process, addressing the immediate nutritional needs of the existing population becomes imperative. The study, conducted in Telangana, delves into the adoption of terrace gardening practices as a potential remedy for the urban space crunch. Findings reveal a substantial adoption rate, primarily at moderate levels (48.33%), driven by factors such as enthusiasm, a desire for chemical-free produce, and motivation stemming from cost savings. Education, health consciousness, and exposure to media, particularly through influential platforms like YouTube, play pivotal roles in the widespread acceptance of terrace gardening practices. Furthermore, the research evaluates specific terrace gardening practices, shedding light on their varying adoption levels. Potting mixture proportions and harvesting crops at recommended stages emerge as highly adopted practices, showcasing successful implementation and emphasizing their importance in fostering robust growth and optimizing yields. Conversely, certain practices like the removal of virus-infected plants rank lower in adoption, possibly due to a lack of awareness regarding disease spread. In conclusion, the study not only highlights the significance of terrace gardening as a sustainable urban agriculture solution but also provides valuable insights into the nuances of adoption among specific practices. These findings serve as a foundation for formulating strategies to navigate the challenges posed by rapid population growth and urbanization, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for urban agriculture.