Plant Growth and Yield Dynamics in Tomato Cultivation: Insights from Front Line Demonstrations

The present study was undertaken to assess the yield gap through Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) on tomato crops. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Malkangiri (Odisha), conducted 13 trials on tomatoes in 2015-16 and 2016-17 across different villages. The predominant grower practices were treated as controls, while recommended practices were implemented in demonstration fields. Over the two years, the average yield in the demonstration fields was 622.3 quintals per hectare (q/ha), compared to 305.2 q/ha in the control fields. The average technology gap, representing the difference between potential and actual yields in the demonstration fields, was found to be 377.7 q/ha. The technology index, indicating the percentage deviation from potential yield achieved averaged 37.77%.