Evaluation of hybrid Napier in Panchmahals district of central Gujarat

Abstract

The present study was conducted in Godhra, Kalol and Ghoghmba talukas of Panchmahals district of central Gujarat, to popularize the improved green fodder production technology. Constrains in hybrid Napier production were identified though participatory approach. Preferential ranking technique was utilized to identify the constraints faced by the farmers in hybrid Napier production. The results revealed that lack of suitable high yielding varieties, lack of technical knowledge and less availability of irrigation water were the three most important factors which inhibited the adoption of HYVs of hybrid Napier in Panchmahals district of Gujarat. The yield of green fodder from hybrid Napier in demonstration was 970 q/h as compared local check (665 q/h). The percentage increase in the yield over local check was 45.86. Economic analysis of the yield performance revealed that front line demonstrations recorded higher gross returns (Rupees 67 900/ha) and net return (Rupees 40 500/ha) with higher benefit ratio (2.48) as compared to (2.03) local checks. Farmers mean knowledge score had increased significantly by 32.42 after implementation of frontline demonstrations. The impact of FLD was also analyzed which showed that there was significant improvement in knowledge level and satisfaction on the part of farmers.