ABSTRACT

The present study assessed the impact of livestock training programs conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) on knowledge and adoption of livestock production technologies among farmers in Karnataka. The study focused on KVK Saidapur in Dharwad and KVK Hanumanamatti in Haveri districts, which have conducted the most livestock training programs. The sample constitute 120 farmers (60 dairy and 60 sheep/goat trainee farmers) selected from six taluks across the two districts & data collected through personal interviews and analyzed with suitable statistical tools.
Post-training, knowledge levels improved significantly. In Dharwad, the percentage of dairy trainees with high knowledge varying (26.67 %) to (50.00 %), while sheep/goat knowledge grew by (6.66 %). In Haveri, dairy knowledge increased by (13.33 %) and sheep/ goat by (16.66 %). Adoption of livestock practices also improved, with medium adoption rising from (40.00 %) to (53.33%) in Dharwad and high adoption by (10.00 %) in Haveri. The mean knowledge index rose from (56.46 %) to (75.26 %) and the adoption index from (36.00 %) to (57.00 %), leading to a total change of 39.80 points and an impact of (19.90 %).
The SWOC analysis highlighted hands-on training and expertise as strengths, while (80.00 %) of trainees cited limited resources and difficulty adopting new technologies as key constraints. Climate change and pandemics were noted as challenges by (76.00 %) of trainees. Suggested improvements included practical training, mentorship and better recognition for successful trainees.
Several constraints hinderance the effectiveness of the programs, including lack of resources (55.00 %) and challenges in adopting complex practices (50.00 %). Addressing these issues will be crucial to enhancing the impact of livestock training programs and ensuring wider adoption of technologies. Overall, the programs led to a 19.90 per cent improvement in knowledge and adoption rates, demonstrating the value of continued training initiatives.