Empowering coconut stakeholders through extension

Abstract

The important frontline transfer of technology activities in coconut implemented by institute include training programmes, frontline demonstrations, information communication through mass media like radio, television, newspapers and farm magazines, extension pamphlets, CD ROMs, video cassettes etc., arranging exhibitions, seminars, Kisan Melas and group meetings, providing consultancy through field visits and replying postal queries etc. Besides, a few innovative extension approaches have also been pilot tested through action research with farmers’ participation by institute for improving technology utilisation by coconut farmers. On-campus/off-campus training programmes for farmers and extension personnel on specific topics related to agrotechniques, management of coconut diseases, integrated pest management, nursery management in coconut, organic farming technologies based cropping systems and post-harvest technology form an important component of TOT programmes to enhance their knowledge and skill for better technology utilisation. The study conducted among extension personnel who had participated in training programmes conducted indicates that efforts for organising the training programmes are highly successful in achieving the objectives as reflected by high Training Effectiveness Index (TEI) values.