Comparative analysis of constraints in sustainability of rice-wheat cropping system in Haryana among farmers and SMS

A survey was undertaken in four rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum Aestivum) growing districts viz; Karnal, Kurukshetra, Ambala and Kaithal of Haryana. One hundred sixty rice-wheat growing farmers and forty subject matter specialists were selected from the study area. Data were collected by using personal interview method during 2011. The results indicated that amongst bio-physical constraints the perception of farmers and SMSs about the declining water depth, low micro-nutrients, poor soil microbial flora, erratic rainfall and erratic power supply was differed significant higher (based on Z value, P<0.01). Amongst socio-economic constraints, non availability of labour and crop loan were found highly significant (P<0.01) as perceived by the farmers and SMSs. Amongst input constraints, non availability of nitrogen/phosphorus at desired time, poor quality of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides was found highly significantly. Amongst technological constraints, poor plant population, late sowing/transplanting and increasing incidence of insect, pest and diseases differed significantly higher as perceived by the farmers and SMSs. Amongst extension constraints, perception of farmers and SMSs about the lack of knowledge among farmers about newly released technologies, poor information supplied by extension worker, poor participation in exposure visits arranged by various departments differed highly significantly. There was a highly significant difference in perception of the farmers as well as SMSs (based on Z value, P<0.01) about the overall input and extension constraints in sustainability of rice-wheat cropping system. The farmers and SMSs had similar perception about overall biophysical, socio-economic and technological constraints. It is thus a formidable challenge for the researchers and the policy makers to find out ways to improve the food production scenario to keep pace with ever-increasing demand.