The present study was carried out in the Washim and Wardha districts of Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region to assess knowledge and adoption of turmeric grower towards the turmeric cultivation technologies. A total of 120 farmers were purposively selected from four tehsils known for significant turmeric cultivation. An exploratory research design was used to evaluate their responses. Results indicated that a majority of the turmeric grower (89.16%) had a medium level of knowledge regarding turmeric cultivation practices as mostly turmeric growing farmers are progressive growers. High awareness was observed in practices such as preparatory tillage (100%), proper soil selection (91.66%), and time of planting of rhizome (91.66%). Despite this, limited understanding was found for certain aspects like recommended fertilizer application for turmeric crop such as basal dose of NPK recommendation. In terms of adoption, 62.50% of respondents were categorized under the medium adoption category. Practices such as field preparation which is deep ploughing and harrowing, soil selection as well as method of sowing which is Ridge and furrow or Broad Bed Furrow (BBF), harvesting and some post harvesting methods showed high levels of adoption, while the use of specific weight of rhizome for sowing, plant protection measures such as pest and disease control, and recommended fertilizer application had relatively lower adoption rates although adequate knowledge among farmers.
So, the awareness and practical application highlights the need for more targeted extension services. Strengthening farmer training, supplying the post-harvest management equipment, demonstration programs, and hands-on experience can enhance the actual implementation of recommended practices, thereby improving turmeric technology and productivity in the region.
International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development
