- Problem:.The productivity of the rice is decreasing year after year whereas the consumption of chemical fertilizers is going up in upper tunga project area. Less utilization of organic manures, inappropriate fertilizer management, injudicious use of water, intensive farming etc are the associated causes for low productivity.
- Characteristics of technology: Growing pulse after cereal crop is well known practice in maintaining soil health. Black gram is the short duration (<90 days), less water requiring variety suitable for cultivating in summer season (Jan-April).
- KVK interventions: ICAR- Taralabalu KVK had taken demonstration on blackgram production under NFSM project at four cluster villages namely Bijogatti, Kuruva, Govinakovi and Haralahalli of Honnali taluk, Davangere district in view of improving soil fertility and to generate additional income to the farmers. Demonstrated with 25 farmers in 10 hectare during 2016-17 and 39 farmers in 20 hectare during 2017-18 in collaboration with Department of Agriculture.
- Yield and Output: The average yield of 6.2 q/ha was recorded in demonstrated plots. Blackgram cultivation not only provided extra income but also helped farmers enrich soil nutrition. About 25% (30 ha) of paddy farmers in Bijogatte village started growing pulses in summer during 2017-18 without the help of any organization.
- Economic benefit: With little expenses, the farmers got average net income of Rs.15,395/- per hectare with blackgram.
