Training Needs Assessment of Farmers of Bihar: A Zone Wise Analysis

Abstract

In the present system of imparting training to farmers, the training areas need are pre-decided by the planners which often do not match with the actual requirement, and do not fulfil the desired objectives of the training. Also, the farmers become uninterested in getting their skill improvement in the areas not suited to their needs. Keeping the above facts in mind, a study was undertaken during 2009-12 at ICAR RCER, Patna with the objectives to study the socio-economic attributes of farmers and field functionaries, to identify the training needs of farmers and field functionaries, and to suggest suitable policy recommendations. Data were collected through well-structured schedules developed for the purpose from 25 randomly selected farmers representing different socio-economic groups from each village selecting two villages from each block, two blocks from each districts and two districts from each agro-ecological zones of Bihar. Results indicated that input dealers should be trained on general agricultural aspects like safe use of pesticides, spraying techniques etc. as they are one of the important sources of information for the farmers. More time should be given on skilled demonstration, field trips, exposure visits so as to increase adoption of the technology.