Association between Knowledge, Adoption and Socio-Economic Profile of Maize Growers regarding Improved Maize Production Practices in Begusarai District of Bihar

Abstract

The present study on socio-economic profile of the respondents and determine the level of knowledge and adoption in improved maize cultivation practices as enterprises. Begusarai district of Bihar is selected purposively for the present study, because there were large number of maize farmers in the district and also the researcher knows about the area and well conversant with language, geographical, agricultural and other aspect of the area. There are 18 blocks in the selected district out of that Teghra block is selected purposively for present study because there are large number of farmers. From that seven villages were randomly selected and a total of 120 maize farmers were selected using proportionate random sampling method. a comprehensive structured interview schedule covering all aspects of the improved maize production practices was prepared. The items included in the interview schedule were structured questions and objective type questions which were suitable to all categories of respondents. The data was collected from them, analyzed using MS-excel and the finding of the study has been given below. Majority of the respondents possessed middle level of innovativeness and economic motivation and high level of decision making ability and risk orientation. The overall knowledge an adoption level of the maize farmers was found under medium level. The local extension officials along with scientists should take appropriate knowledge promotional strategies such as training, demonstrations, exhibitions, etc., to impart cent per cent knowledge level and to increase the extent of adoption among the respondents.