Knowledge level of farmers and scientists about agricultural biotechnology in Jharkhand

Agricultural biotechnology deals not only with genetically modified (GM) crops but also with tissue culture, micropropagation, marker assisted selection, biopesticides, etc. GM crops have potential to meet food requirement of rising population and cope adverse impact of climate change. People are having different opinion about cultivation of GM crops. There is apprehension from few people that GM crops may adversely affect human beings as well as animals. But few people are in favour of adoption of GM crops for enhancing productivity and human welfare. Knowledge about agricultural biotechnology especially GM crops is crucial for providing feedback regarding acceptance or rejection of the technology. The present study was taken up to assess the knowledge level of farmers and scientists about agricultural biotechnology. Data was collected from 50 farmers and 50 scientists of relevant disciplines in Jharkhand. Analysis of data revealed that both farmers and scientists had less knowledge about GM crops in comparison to non-GM aspects (bio-pesticide, tissue culture, DNA finger printing, marker assisted selection, etc) of agricultural biotechnology. Most of the farmers (58%) and scientists (66%) had medium level of knowledge of agricultural biotechnology. Age of the farmer respondents had significant correlation (at 0.01 level) with their knowledge level. However, research projects handled by the scientists as a leader had significant correlation (at 0.05 level) with their knowledge level about agricultural biotechnology. The outcome of study will be helpful in policy formulation about generating awareness and adoption of agricultural Biotechnology.