Adoption of MPKV released recommendations of sugarcane by farmers: Evidence from Kolhapur district, Maharashtra

Abstract

This study assessed the adoption levels of university-released sugarcane management recommendations among farmers in Kolhapur district, Maharashtra, a leading sugarcane production area. Despite proven benefits in yield, water efficiency, and sustainability, gaps persist between research and farm practices. An ex-post-facto research design was employed, purposively selecting Kolhapur district, Karveer and Shirol tehsils, 10 villages, and 120 sugarcane growers via multi-stage sampling using the 'N' method. Data were collected through personal interviews with a structured schedule developed with experts from Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. Findings revealed medium adoption (60.83%) overall, with low (28.34%) and high (10.83%) levels among respondents. Partial adoption dominated in planting techniques (35.84%), nutrient management via fertigation (35.83%), disease control (38.34%), and drip irrigation (31.67%). Complete adoption was low for sett treatment with oligochitosan (7.50%), nursery media (11.67%), and subsurface drip scheduling (0%), attributed to high costs, limited awareness, input unavailability, and traditional preferences. Pest control (24.16% complete) and rust management (25.83%) fared better. Results highlight extension gaps, Enhanced demonstrations, subsidies for drip/biofertilizers, and training can boost uptake, improving productivity, resource efficiency, and climate resilience.