VARIETAL EVALUATION OF FODDER OAT THROUGH FRONT LINE DEMONSTRATIONS IN KACHCHH REGION OF GUJARAT.

Oat is a crucial fodder crop that supports small and marginal farmers in the Kachchh region by providing more fodder in saline conditions and increasing income. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals in their green forage, and produce high-quality silage, hay, and excellent grazing when grown with improved practices. To promote improved oat cultivation technology with highyielding varieties JHO 822 and JHO 2010-1, KVK Bhuj conducted 30 Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) across 12 hectares from Rabi 2020-21 to 2022-23 at different location of Kachchh Gujarat. The three years’ data revealed that the average yield of JHO 2010-1 increased by 12.60%, from 254 q/ha (existing practice) to 286 q/ha (improved practice). The average technology gap, extension gap, and technology index for JHO 2010-1 were 20 q/ha, 32 q/ha, and 6.54%, respectively. For JHO 822, the yield increased by 10.82% in demo plots over conventional practice with an average technology gap, extension gap, and technology index of 59 q/ha, 40.67 q/ha, and 12.30%, respectively. Economically, the demonstrations showed an increased net return of Rs. 35,900/ha with a benefitcost ratio (BCR) of 2.03 for JHO 2010-1, compared to Rs. 29,166.67 /ha and a BC ratio of 1.85 under local practices. For JHO 822, the net return increased to Rs. 68,066.67 /ha with a BC ratio of 2.89, compared to Rs. 59,466.67 /ha and a BC ratio of 2.73 for local practices. By conducting these FLDs, the yield potential of the oat crop and the income level of the farming community can be significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]