Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Kasi Viswanath R, Durga Prasad NVVS, Usha M, Jahnavi M, Leela Krishna N, Venkateswara Reddy T, Manasa T and Siva M

Abstract:
A study was undertaken on adaptation of Agrometadvisory services (AAS) by farmers of Prakasam district of south costal Andhra Pradesh. The sample group included 480 farmers from 12 sub divisions of Prakasam District, including 240 registered and 240 unregistered farmers. Farmer respondents were specifically chosen, and personal interviews were done. A total of 104 agro advisory bulletins were prepared and disseminated to the farmers during the year of 2022-23 by District Agromet Unit (DAMU) established at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Darsi, Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh. Results showed that 45.0% of registered middle-aged farmers preferred adapting agricultural practises based on the weather forecast. According to the response, 78.8% of farmers prioritise weather forecasts before harvesting, and 77.0% do the same for post-harvest management (drying/threshing). The majority of farmers were in need. Temperature forecast came in second (68.8%), followed by rainfall forecast (90.8%). Accurate weather predicting would allow the farmers to plan their farm activities like Fertiliser application, Bordo spraying, Harvesting, etc., timely weather prediction aids AAS registered farmers to plan agricultural operations to avoid crop losses hence maintaining sustain and stable farm income. The AAS service provided by DAMU, Prakasam, satisfied 85percent of farmers.