Demonstration on yield maximization in groundnut lead positive impact among farmers of Tamil Nadu, India

Groundnut is a significant oilseed crop in India, contributing 27% to the country's total oilseed production. In Tamil Nadu, it is cultivated on 3.51 lakh hectares with a production of 9,12,150 tonnes and a productivity of 2,598 kg/ha. Villupuram district is notable for its groundnut cultivation, covering 18,388 hectares during kharif and 10,507 hectares during rabi in 2022-23, producing 72,923 tonnes. This study evaluates the high-yielding groundnut variety Kadiri Lepakshi through front line demonstrations on 50 acres across three villages in Villupuram during the rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. Kadiri Lepakshi, released in 2020, is notable for its high protein (28%) and oil content (51%), drought resistance, and stable yields even under stress. The demonstration involved high yielding variety, seed treatment, micronutrient and gypsum application, integrated pest and disease management. The study showed significant improvement in yield in demonstration plots compared to traditional farmer practices. Results indicated an average yield increase of 30.19%, with a higher economic return of 68.81% increase, showcasing the variety's potential for enhanced productivity and profitability with the adoption of improved cultivation practices. The study emphasizes the necessity of disseminating these improved practices through training and demonstrations to bridge the technology and extension gaps, thereby increasing groundnut yields and farmer income.