Cluster Frontline Demonstration (CFLD) on Oilseeds

The Cluster Frontline Demonstration on Oilseeds is a key initiative by the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Government of India to showcase cutting-edge technologies for oilseed crops. These technologies cover seed treatment, bio fertilizer application, integrated nutrient and pest management, line sowing, weed and irrigation management. Launched in 2015-16 under the National Food Security Mission and National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm, the project is carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Objectives:

Cluster Front-Line Demonstrations aim to showcase new crop production and protection technologies to farmers in various agro-climatic regions and farming conditions. Scientists study factors influencing crop production, field constraints, and gather feedback while demonstrating these technologies in farmers' fields. These demonstrations are closely supervised by KVK scientists to ensure accurate implementation before being integrated into the State Department of Agriculture's extension system.

Salient features of CFLD Oilseeds:

• Cluster Frontline Demonstrations are conducted under the close supervision of the scientists of the KVKs of ICAR Institute and State Agricultural Universities.
• Only newly released technologies or those likely to be released in near future are selected for the Cluster Front-Line Demonstrations.
• Only critical inputs are provided from the scheme budget, remaining inputs are supplied by the farmers themselves.
• Cluster Front-Line Demonstrations are used as a source of generating data on factors contributing higher crop yields and constraints of production under various farming situation

Technological Interventions under CFLD Oilseeds

Seed treatment: Seed treatment involves the application of biological and chemical agents to control soil and seed-borne pests, such as insects and diseases, which can have a negative impact on crop production. This process helps to improve crop safety and establish healthy plants, resulting in better yields. Seed treatment methods can range from basic dressing to coating and pelleting. In CFLD Oilseeds, chemicals like Trichoderma viridi, Bavistin, Propinophex, Carboxin, and Thiram are commonly used for seed treatment. Additionally, in Groundnut, Rhizobium sp and Azotobactor are used for seed inoculation.

Use of improved variety:Improved varieties are superior in terms of yields, quality, and stability of production. They possess traits such as disease and insect resistance, high yield, early maturity, optimal plant height, superior quality, and higher nutrient levels. These characteristics make them highly desirable for farmers looking to maximize their agricultural output efficiently and effectively.

Integrated Pest Management:Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a strategic method for managing pests that is both effective and environmentally friendly. It utilizes a combination of practices based on knowledge of pest life cycles and their relationship with the environment. By incorporating this information with various pest control methods, IPM programs aim to minimize pest damage in the most cost-effective manner while reducing potential risks to people, property, and the environment.

Sowing Method:Sowing is an important art in agriculture where seeds are placed in the soil at a specific depth for optimal germination. It is a crucial step following land levelling, as perfect sowing ensures the correct amount of seed per unit area with good spacing between plants. In line sowing, uniform row spacing is maintained, resulting in less seed requirement compared to broadcasting. A spacing of 30x10 cm is ideal for most oilseeds using the in line sowing method.

Weed Management:Weeds can negatively impact crop plants by competing for light, water, and nutrients, as well as serving as a habitat for pests and diseases. An integrated weed management program, which includes preventive measures, sanitation, physical barriers, hand weeding, and selective herbicide use, can effectively control weed populations and minimize their effects on crops. By utilizing a combination of these strategies, farmers can better manage weeds and ensure the health and productivity of their crops.