Vol. 9, Special Issue 2, Part E (2025)

The present study was carried out during the year 2023-24 in Nalanda, Bihar. This study explores the knowledge and adoption patterns of potato production technologies among farmers in Nalanda district, Bihar. Bihar, being one of India's leading potato-producing states, has experienced growth in acreage and output; however, productivity remains below neighbouring states. The study investigates the socioeconomic characteristics, media exposure, and technological adoption behaviours of 200 respondents, selected using probability proportionate to size sampling. Farmers exhibited medium levels of education (60%), with most (61%) being middle-aged (37-60 years). Agriculture served as the primary livelihood for 75.5% of respondents, reflecting a significant dependence on farming. Notably, mobile phones ranked as the most preferred source of agricultural information, followed by television and newspapers. Adoption of improved potato varieties, timely sowing, and irrigation practices were high (over 70%), while advanced practices like soil testing and the use of true potato seeds saw minimal adoption. Medium-level annual income (₹50,000-₹2,00,000) and small landholdings (63.5% owning less than one hectare) shaped adoption dynamics, indicating resource constraints. The findings highlight the impact of education, media exposure, and landholding size on technology uptake. Gaps in adopting advanced practices underscore the need for targeted extension strategies to enhance productivity. This study emphasizes the role of socioeconomic factors and media in driving agricultural innovation, contributing to policy frameworks for sustainable potato farming in Bihar.