The study aimed to assess the knowledge and adoption levels of farmers regarding improved black gram (Vigna mungo) production practices and to analyze the relationship between these levels and selected socio-economic and psychological variables. Data were collected from 160 respondents through a structured interview schedule. Knowledge and adoption levels were measured using scoring techniques, and respondents were categorized into low, medium, and high levels based on statistical parameters (mean and standard deviation). The findings revealed that 46.25% of farmers had medium levels of both knowledge and adoption, followed by 31.25% with high levels and 22.5% with low levels. Practices such as seed rate, post-harvest management, and intercropping recorded the highest knowledge and adoption scores, while critical areas like seed treatment, fertilizer application, and water management showed the lowest. Correlation analysis indicated that annual income, landholding size, education, occupation, social participation, scientific orientation, economic motivation, and extension contact had significant positive associations with knowledge and adoption levels. Conversely, caste showed a significant negative correlation, while age, family type, and family size had no significant influence. The study concludes that while awareness of improved practices is moderate to high among farmers, actual adoption remains limited in several key areas. Targeted extension services, inclusive training programs, and improved access to information and inputs especially for marginalized groups are essential to bridge the gap between knowledge and adoption, thereby enhancing the productivity and sustainability of black gram cultivation.
International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development
