Feasibility analysis of group approach in the transfer of pepper production technology

Abstract

A study was undertaken to analyse the utility of group approach in the transfer of pepper production technology in Wayanad and Kozhikode districts of Kerala State by forming three types of groups, namely existing, focused and identified focused groups. Under each of the group type, three different sizes of groups (n1 = between 10 and 14; = between 15 and 19; N3= between 20 and 24) were formed for the study. Individual pepper farmers (n = 50) were also selected to serve as control for the study. The group performance in terms of adoption of recommended pepper cultivation practices was studied in relation to the group processes. The data were collected in two phases, the first phase immediately after the formation of groups and the second phase after one crop season. The study revealed that there was significant difference between the types of groups in the extent of adoption when studied immediately after the formation of groups. However, when studied after one season, no significant difference in adoption was noted between the types of groups. There was no significant difference between the size groups in the extent of adoption studied immediately after the formation of groups and also after one season. There was substantial increase in the group related processes such as social participation, interpersonal liking, interpersonal trust, interpersonal contact, co-operation and farmer to farmer interaction, when measured after the functioning of the group for one season. There was' significant difference between the mean scores on knowledge on pepper cultivation in the case of all the group types when studied immediately after the formation of groups and after one season. Absence of a government agency in organising the farmers and providing .proper guidance was . expressed as the most important constraint of group approach in pepper cultivation followed by lack of knowledge and awareness about group approach in pepper cultivation. Severity of quick wilt disease, very small holding size and absence of beneficial programmes were rated as the other important constraints of group approach in pepper cultivation.