Strategies for increasing area and productivity of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in India

Abstract

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an important oilseed crop of India. There has been consistent decline in its production for last one and a half decade. The production has declined from 1.46 million tonnes (m t) in 2007–08 to 0.23 m t in 2020–21. A mission mode approach is required to increase the area and productivity of sunflower in the country. Relative Spread Index (RSI) and Relative Yield Index (RYI) were estimated for 181 districts to identify the potential areas. Based on RSI and RYI values of 250 and 125, these districts were grouped into four categories viz., most efficient, efficient, moderately efficient and inefficient. The inefficient districts were ignored. Of these, 11 and 13 districts were selected for productivity enhancement and area expansion, respectively. For these selected 24 districts, district-wise technologies were mapped. Front line demonstrations (FLDs) were conducted in six districts. In all the districts, FLDs plots recorded higher seed yield and gross monetary returns compared to farmers’ practice plots. Further, the strategies for productivity enhancement and area expansion were discussed.