Title: ENHANCING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF SOYBEAN THROUGH ON FARM TRIALS

Authors: Shakir Ali Qayyum Ali Syed, S. K. Roy and Anita Deshmukh

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: on farm trial, soybean, productivity

Volume: 39

Issue: 1

Year: June 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2025.39.1.0026

Abstract: This study evaluates the enhancing productivity of soybean impact of On-Farm Trials (OFTs) on soybean productivity, technological adoption, and economic performance in Maharashtra, India, from 2018 to 2022. A total of 27,069 OFTs were conducted across 16 soybean varieties, comparing the effects of Recommended Practices (RP) and Farmers' Practices (FP). Results demonstrated a significant increase in Yield under RP, with an average yield of 1791 kg/ha, reflecting a 14.45% improvement over FP. The key factors contributing to yield enhancement included the use of high-yielding varieties, balanced fertilization, timely sowing, and integrated crop management practices. Evaluation of the Extension Gap (EG), Technology Gap (TG), and Technology Index (TI) revealed substantial disparities in the adoption of improved technologies, emphasizing the need for targeted extension services. Economic analysis indicated that the average net return under RP was ?53,208/ha, with a benefit-cost ratio of 2.82, compared to ?37,138/ha and a ratio of 2.22 under FP. These findings demonstrate that the adoption of advanced agronomic practices through OFTs can significantly enhance both the productivity and economic viability of soybean cultivation, suggesting the potential of OFTs as a key strategy for improving agricultural outcomes in India.