International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Debasish Pujari and Dr. Syed H Mazhar

abstract
This study examines the socio-economic characteristics and adoption levels of improved cotton cultivation practices among farmers in Rayagada District, Odisha. The analysis of socio-economic data reveals that the majority of respondents are middle-aged males engaged primarily in agriculture combined with other occupations, and most live in joint families in semi-cemented houses. Landholding sizes are predominantly low, and information sources, scientific orientation, and risk orientation are mostly at medium levels. The adoption of various improved practices, including field preparation, improved varieties, and irrigation, shows significant variation. While practices like improved variety and line sowing have relatively higher adoption rates, others such as seed treatment and plant spacing have lower adoption levels. The overall distribution of respondents by adoption level indicates a concentration in the medium category, with lower and higher categories also represented. Correlation analysis identifies strong positive relationships between adoption levels and factors such as progressiveness, mass media exposure, and source of information. Significant correlations are also observed with scientific orientation, risk orientation, and economic orientation. Conversely, age, gender, and land holding exhibit varying degrees of influence, with age showing the strongest correlation. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address barriers to adoption and enhance the effectiveness of extension services and information dissemination in promoting improved cotton cultivation practices.