Rishabh Yadav, L.B. Singh, R.N. Yadav, D.K. Singh and Harsha
Abstract
The study investigates the constraints influencing the adoption of recommended Package of Practices (PoP) for mustard cultivation under Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) in western Uttar Pradesh. The data collection of respondents was done in 2024-25and a stratified random sample of 240 farmers, including CFLD beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries across three Krishi Vigyan Kendras, was surveyed through structured interviews conducted after harvest. Data were analysed using the Garrett Ranking Technique, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify and interpret the major barriers and their effect on yield. The results revealed that the non-availability of improved varieties, along with the high cost of inputs and labour, emerged as the most critical adoption constraints, highlighting gaps in seed supply and economic feasibility. PCA grouped eight identified challenges into three dimensions, i.e. economic, technical, and availability-related constraints, which together explained 50.38% of total variance which significantly influenced yield, suggesting that farmers facing higher costs or input shortages tend to optimize resources when supported through demonstrations. Technical barriers, such as complex fertilizer recommendations, had a minor effect, likely mitigated through extension services and adaptive practices. Overall, the study underscores the need to strengthen input supply chains, reduce input costs, simplify technical guidance, and enhance policy support to ensure sustainable adoption of improved mustard technologies.