International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
A Deva Harsha, Daya Ram and R Amulya

abstract
The study was carried out to examine the personal, socio-economic and communication characteristics of the ginger growers of Thoubal District, Manipur. The level of entrepreneurial behaviour and problems faced by ginger cultivators was also studied. Ex-post facto research design was followed. The study was conducted in Thoubal district of Manipur. Out of three blocks, Wangjing and Thoubal blocks were selected randomly. Further, three villages from each block were selected randomly where respondents were selected by using stratified random sampling from each village. Hence, a total sample of 100 respondents for the present study was selected. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents were middle aged (36-55 years). Most of the respondents belonged to nuclear type family (up to 5 members). Majority had education up to middle school level (6-8) and had marginal size of total land holding. Most of the respondents belonged to medium income level (50k-1.5L). Most of the respondents possessed membership in one organization. Mass media exposure were found to be in high level and most of the respondents were possessing all mass media tools. Majority of the respondents were participating occasional in extension participation. Majority had medium level of aspiration, farm experience. Majority were having subsidiary occupation (Agriculture & service). Majority of the respondents had medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour. The independent variables: Education, Income, Extension participation, Age, Family exhibited positive and statistically significant correlation with the entrepreneurial behaviour of the respondents. Whereas the variables: Age, Education, Income, Extension participation were showing more influence on Entrepreneurial behaviour. The main problems were lack of co-ordination with Department of Horticulture, marketing co-operatives, non-availability of insurance when crop fails, non-availability of certified seed, lack of technical help, knowledge of ginger farmer, low market value and high cost of inputs. The study recommends organization of trainings, exposure visits, demonstration, awareness, exhibitions to motivate farmers for undertaking entrepreneurial ventures so as to enhance the socio-economic wellbeing of the farmers.