An evaluation of training programmes conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tumkur, Karnataka

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) organise trainings to work closely with trainees in developing a more skilled and educated workforce. KVK has to develop and adopt on-campus and off-campus training programmes. The training programmes are multipurpose to cover not only the varied needs of a person but also the entire needs of a village or community. Trainings of two batches of 38 and 33 Bhuchethana facilitators (extension functionaries of State Agriculture Department) were conducted at KVK during 2012–13. Pre- and post-evaluation of the trainees was done to find out the level of change in their knowledge and skills after undergoing training. Cent per cent of trainees agreed that they did not have any knowledge on importance of micronutrients in plants, recommended dosages of micronutrients to plants, information on integrated nutrient management, differentiation of incidences of pests and diseases and differentiating between beneficial and harmful pests. Cent per cent of trainees had good knowledge and could develop skill in the area mentioned above. These results show the importance of trainings in the change of knowledge and skills of the personnel and in turn it helps in adoption of technologies learnt in the training programmes. It shows that the training programmes conducted by KVKs are more effective in changing the knowledge and skill of the trainees (Bhuchethana facilitators). Cent per cent changes in the knowledge and skill of the trainees were observed after conducting pre- and post-evaluation. The majority of the respondents agreed that the information given by the trainers was more informative and helped in changing their knowledge and skill.