Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 12

Green leafy vegetables are important components of household nutrition and farm income in vegetable-growing areas. The present study assessed the socio-economic characteristics, adoption of improved cultivation practices and major constraints experienced by vegetable growers in Kalaburagi district of Karnataka. The survey was conducted during 2023-24 and 2024-25 in six vegetable-growing villages, namely Gobbur, Malli, Kadaganchi, Narona, Ashtaga and Jambaga, covering Afzalpur and Aland taluks. A sample of 130 farmers was selected through proportionate random sampling. Data were collected using a structured and pre-tested schedule and analysed through frequency and percentage. The results indicated that 66.0% of respondents belonged to the 41-50 years age group, 39.5% were illiterate, 72.0% had small families and 48.5% were classified as big farmers. Borewell irrigation was the major water source, reported by about 67.0% of respondents. Adoption was higher for improved varieties (86.0%), irrigation management (80.0%), quality seed use (72.5%), nutrient management in the nursery (70.0%) and recommended FYM and chemical fertiliser use (66.0%). Lower adoption was observed for disease management (40.0%), insect pest management (32.1%) and improved nursery-raising practices (14.0%). The major technical, economic and marketing constraints were pest and disease incidence, non-availability of labourers, irregular power supply, high input and labour costs, limited access to bank loans, commission agents and lack of price information. The study highlights the need for improved extension support, input access, irrigation planning and local marketing infrastructure.