The research was carried out in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, focusing on two locations: Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kalikiri, and Rashtriya Seva Samithi - Krishi Vigyan Kendra (RASS-KVK), Karakambadi. A total of 120 participants were included in the study. The findings indicated that among the CFLDs (Cluster Front Line Demonstrations) beneficiary farmers more than half (51.67%) exhibited a high level of adoption of the recommended groundnut cultivation practices. Medium adoption was observed in 45.00% of the beneficiaries, while a low extent of adoption was seen in only 3.33% of them. In contrast, among the non-beneficiary farmers, half (50.00%) showed a medium, level of adoption of the recommended groundnut cultivation practices. Low adoption was observed in 41.67% of the non-beneficiaries, while a high extent of adoption was seen in 8.33%. Some of the challenges faced by famers are demonstration should be repeated regularly, low cost technology needs to be introduced, KVKs should arrange a buyback of seed to get immediate returns to the farmers, KVK scientists should visit farmers fields on a frequent basis. This study would give a direction to the implementation agencies of CFLDs to overcome any lacuna if any for the better execution of the demonstrations.

Cluster Frontline Demonstrations, Beneficiary farmers, non-beneficiary farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendras and extent of adoption

To showcase the effectiveness of improved varieties and promote the adoption of advanced production management technologies for groundnut, cluster frontline demonstrations were meticulously carried out on farmers' fields. The primary objective was to convince the farming community of the immense potential and benefits associated with these innovations. Beneficiary farmers, who received comprehensive training and education on the technologies utilized in cluster frontline demonstrations, displayed a higher likelihood of embracing them. Through targeted programs and extension services, farmers gained valuable knowledge and a deeper understanding of the advantages offered by cluster frontline demonstrations. Additionally, beneficiary farmers received institutional support from various entities such as government agencies, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations. These collaborative organizations worked closely with farmers, providing vital technical assistance, facilitating access to essential resources, and ensuring continuous monitoring and evaluation. The combined efforts of these organizations created an enabling environment, making it easier for beneficiary farmers to readily adopt the technologies employed in cluster frontline demonstrations. This distinguished them from non-beneficiary farmers, as they had access to a wealth of support and resources that further facilitated the adoption process.

A. Nikhitha, P. Bala Hussain Reddy, V. Sailaja and P. Ganesh Kumar (2023). Empowering Groundnut Farmers: ‘Extent of Adoption of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDS) by Beneficiary and Non-Beneficiary Farmers in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 571-576.