Farmers’ Participatory Extension Research for Dissemination of Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br. Variety-Sulkhaniya Bajra in India

Abstract

Background: Drawing from the different farmer participatory and farmer-managed trials, morphological characterization of farmer’s pearl millet variety-Sulkhaniya Bajra was investigated for facilitating registration under PPV and FR Act with performance and suitability evaluation under different agro-climatic zones of the country for its wide-scale dissemination. Methods: Researcher managed and farmer implemented trails (RMFITs) constituted under randomized block design having five treatments with four replications were conducted at two farmers’ fields under Jaipur conditions. During 2016-2019, Farmer-Managed and Farmer Implemented Trials (FMFITs) in Gujarat and Rajasthan with Farmer-Managed Trials (FMTs) in Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Maharashtra were also conducted. Result: Sulkhania Bajra was superior in both grain (30.6 q/ha) and fodder (63.q/ha) yield as compared to the checks and was characterized by distinct long earheads (64.95 cm), higher plant height (193.13 cm) with early maturity which took 46 days for 50% spike emergence. The unique characteristics coupled with adaptability to harsh environments also enable the variety to serve as suitable breeding material. Multiple drivers influence new technology adoption decisions, the present study reiterates using evidence-backed knowledge for designing and implementing the trials with the farmers’ involvement, taking into account the possible drawbacks for wider acceptance.