Comparative evaluation of improved berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) varieties for fodder yield, yield gap analysis, economics, adoption and horizontal spread through participatory approach

Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) is an important winter fodder crop; however, its productivity remains low due to poor adoption of improved varieties and scientific management practices. To address this gap, Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) were conducted by MGKVK during 2017-18 to 2023-24 to evaluate the performance of improved berseem varieties BB-2 and BL-42 under farmers’ field conditions. The demonstrations emphasized recommended seed rate, seed treatment with Rhizobium, timely sowing and balanced fertilization. Results revealed that improved technologies significantly enhanced green fodder yield, recording an average yield of 819 q ha⁻¹ compared to 616 q ha⁻¹ under farmers’ practice, with yield advantages ranging from 20.45 to 63.98 per cent. Technology index varied from 14.4 to 22.0 per cent, indicating good feasibility of the demonstrated technologies. Economic analysis showed higher gross and net returns along with superior benefit-cost ratio under FLDs. Adoption of key production practices increased markedly, leading to substantial varietal replacement and horizontal spread of improved varieties. The study highlights the effectiveness of FLDs in improving fodder productivity, profitability and technology dissemination in the district.