2025, Vol. 8, Special Issue 3

author(s)
Dhivya C, Arunkumar R and V Balamurugan

abstract
Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is an essential spice crop with significant economic and medicinal value. India dominates global turmeric production, with Tamil Nadu, particularly Erode District, being one of the leading producers. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of turmeric farmers and their adoption of cultivation practices in Kodumudi Block, Erode District, Tamil Nadu. A total of 120 turmeric farmers were selected using a proportionate random sampling technique, and data were collected through a structured interview schedule. The study employed correlation and regression analyses to assess the influence of various factors on the extent of adoption of turmeric cultivation practices. The correlation analysis revealed that age, educational status, mass media exposure, social participation, and training programs undergone had significant positive associations with adoption. Regression analysis further confirmed that educational status, social participation, mass media exposure, and training programs were the most influential predictors, while other variables like farm size, farming experience, and economic motivation showed no significant impact. The overall model explained 53.2% of the variation in adoption levels (R² = 0.532, F = 8.168, p < 0.01), indicating that these socio-economic factors play a crucial role in influencing turmeric farmers' decisions. The findings suggest that policymakers and agricultural extension agencies should focus on enhancing farmer education, strengthening social networks, improving access to mass media, and organizing skill-based training programs to promote the widespread adoption of improved turmeric cultivation practices. These strategies will help boost productivity, sustainability, and profitability among turmeric growers in the region.