Title: KNOWLEDGE OF PADDY GROWERS ABOUT PLANT PROTECTION PRACTICES

Authors: P. B. Khodifad, V. B. Lakkad and N. M. Chauhan

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: paddy crop, knowledge, plant protection practices

Volume: 39

Issue: 1

Year: June 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2025.39.1.0029

Abstract: The present study examines the knowledge of plant protection practices among paddy growers in the Valsad district of Gujarat. This research also investigates the socio-economic profile and relationship between their knowledge of plant protection practices. Ex-post-facto research design was employed for this investigation. A total of 150 respondents from three talukas within the Valsad district were randomly selected for this study. Data were collected personally using an interview schedule covering independent dependent variables. The findings revealed that most respondents were middle-aged, with primary-level education, medium landholding size, and moderate annual income. They showed medium levels of risk orientation, mass media exposure, and decision-making ability, alongside moderate levels of innovativeness, economic motivation, and scientific orientation. A significant majority had at least one organizational membership. The respondents exhibited moderate knowledge of plant protection practices. Education, landholding, income, risk orientation, social participation, management orientation, economic motivation, scientific orientation, and mass media exposure had positive and highly significant relationships with knowledge of plant protection practices. This study is valuable for policymakers, extension workers, and agricultural scientists aiming to enhance paddy production in India through the promotion of efficient plant protection practices, thereby contributing to food security and rural development.