Extension

The methods adopted for Transfer of Technology include frontline demonstration of technologies, training, seminar, interface programmes, exhibition, farmers' meet, replying queries,  extension literature, CD ROMs, audio/video programmes, utilization of print/radio/visual media, Agricultural Technology Information Centre, Internet etc.

Assessment/refining of technologies based on on-farm trials (as part of IVLP (NATP)), analysis of socio-economic profile of clients and identification of constraints in technology adoption (e.g, Field level performance of microirrigation systems in Kasaragod district, coconut based farming systems in Kozhikode district), participatory technology transfer of integrated root (wilt) management practices in Alappuzha and Kollam districts, developing entrepreneurship among farmers by forming Community Based Organization    at Pallikkkera(Kerala) and Ariyankuppam (Tamil Nadu) etc. are attempted in the project on Multidimensional analysis of development, transfer and utilization of technology.  Another on-going project is on Technology acceptance and retention through farm family participatory production planning-an approach study.

  Economics

Studies on marketing, price analysis and international trade of coconut, arecanut and cocoa, impact analysis and economic viability of technologies, consumer preference of value added products etc. were attempted.

  Statistics

Refinement of statistical methods, organizing large scale surveys, yield forecasting, estimation of yield loss due biotic/abiotic factors etc. were attempted. 

Developed  disease indices for :  Root (wilt ) disease; Stem bleeding disease;  YLD of Aracanut

Large scale Sample surveys :  Incidence of root (wilt), leaf rot diseases  and Oryctus infestation in Southern Kerala, intensity and production loss due to root (wilt) disease in Kerala, Crown choke disease of coconut in Assam, intensity and extent of YLD disease of arecanut in Kerala and Karnataka, eriophyid mite in Alapuzha district; stem bleeding disease in Kasaragod district; Arecanut yield loss due to  drought in Karnataka; and Estimation of cost of production of coconut in Kerala.

Spacing in cashew and cocoa :

• Under forests, spacing of 2.5 x 2.5 m to 3.0 x 3.0 m are found suitable for cashew. 

• In areca garden, cocoa is planted in 2.7 x 5.4 m spacing, where main crop is planted at 2.7 x 2.7 m.

• When grown as intercrop with coconut, two systems are usually followed viz., single hedge of 2.7 m apart or double hedge of 2.5 m between rows and 2.7 m within rows.

Developed Plantation Crops Information System as a part of the data ware house under Integrated National Agricultural Resources Information System (NATP)

Developed CD ROMs dealing with various aspects of mandate crops.