Knowledge level of soil management practices and their adoption by farmers of Odisha

Bringing Green Revolution in Eastern India (BGREI) was launched to turn eastern region of the country into a food surplus zone. The state of Odisha has been included under the scheme due to its potential to increase productivity. This however is possible only if steps are taken to manage acidic soil in the state and improve soil health and fertility. The present study was carried out in two villages of Mayurbhanj district of Odisha to find out the extent of adoption of acidic soil management practices by the farmers and constraints faced by them. Aggregate adoption scores indicated medium level of adoption. Use of compost (42.22%), application of soil amendment (38.88%) and soil testing and application of micronutrients (37.78%) were adopted by maximum number of farmers. On the other hand use of super phosphate in compost pit (80%), application of sulphur (67.78%) and use of bio-fertilizers (66.66%) were rejected by farmers. Major constraints in adoption include difficulty in understanding soil test recommendations, lack of awareness and non-availability of inputs.