International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Sagar, GM Gaddi, Ajayakumar and Suman L

abstract
The All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRPs) have significantly advanced agricultural research in India since 1970, focusing on developing innovations tailored to various agro-climatic conditions. The AICRP on sugarcane, established in 1972 at the Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), Mandya, under the umbrella of University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru (UASB), has been pivotal in creating improved sugarcane varieties. A notable achievement is the development of the VCF-0517 sugarcane variety, known as "Bahubali," for its high yield and drought tolerance, now covering over 75% of the sugarcane area in South Karnataka. This study examined the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of VCF-0517 sugarcane variety. The study found that younger farmers are more likely to adopt the UASB sugarcane variety VCF-0517, with age inversely affecting adoption by 40.20 percent. Education level positively influenced adoption of VCF-0517 sugarcane. These findings suggest that younger and better-educated farmers are more inclined to adopt innovative farming practices. The study also found that, better access to credit and frequent contact with extension services significantly enhance the adoption of VCF-0517 sugarcane among farmers highlight the importance of financial support and effective agricultural outreach in promoting the uptake of new farming innovations.