Impact of cluster wise frontline demonstration on yield and economics of mustard in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Rohru, during 2021-22 to evaluate the impact of cluster wise frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on yield, technology adoption and economic returns of mustard (Brassica juncea) in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. A total of 86 demonstrations were carried out over 10 ha in 4 cluster- Shah, Sanarsa villages (Rampur block) and Gari, Rathi villages (Rohru block)-using the high yield mustard variety RH-0749. The study assessed the parameters including yield performance, technology gap, extension gap, technology index and economic analysis. Results showed that the average yield under demonstration plots was 6.77 q/ha, higher than the local check yield 5.0 q/ha, with yield gains ranging from 28-44%. The highest yield (7.2 q/ha) and lowest technology gap (2.3 q/ha) was recorded in cluster 2 (Sanarsa) indicating favorable agroecological and adoption conditions. Extension gaps ranged from 1.4 to 2.2 q/ha, while the technology index varied from 24.21 to 32.63%, highlighting location specific variability in technology feasibility and adoption. Economic analysis revealed that higher net returns (₹45,023/ha) and B: C ratio (2.90) under demonstration, compared to traditional practices (₹30,000/ha and B: C ratio of 2.50). The study confirms that FLDs significantly enhance mustard productivity and profitability while bridging the technology dissemination gap. Strengthening extension services and localized interventions is recommended to sustain and scale the observed benefits.