International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Sakshi K Jadhao, KT Lahariya, NR Koshti, PP Bhople, Archana W Thorat and RD Vaidkar

abstract
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum), a vital pulse crop in India, plays a significant role in food security and soil health enhancement. Despite the availability of high-yielding varieties and scientifically developed cultivation practices, chickpea productivity remains suboptimal in many regions due to incomplete or non-adoption of recommended technologies. This study was conducted in the Akola district of Maharashtra to assess the adoption gap among chickpea growers regarding recommended cultivation practices. A sample of 120 farmers from 12 villages across Balapur and Telhara talukas was selected purposively. Data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed using statistical tools such as mean, percentage, and standard deviation. The findings revealed a wide variation in the adoption of different practices. The highest adoption gaps were observed in biological and mechanical pest control methods, followed by seed treatment, intercultural operations, fertilizer application and irrigation. In contrast, practices like variety selection and sowing time showed no adoption gap, while soil selection, seed rate, and harvesting exhibited minimal gaps. Overall, 65.84% of farmers fell into the medium adoption gap category, indicating partial implementation of key agronomic practices. The study concludes that there is a pressing need for targeted extension interventions, capacity-building programs, and improved access to quality inputs. Such measures are essential to bridge the adoption gap, enhance chickpea productivity, and promote sustainable agriculture in the region.