EXTENSION ACTIVITIES
Extension Interventions 1. Introduction :
Individual Extension
Extension is a major function of the institution, which should assist and complement all other functions.  Further extension is a never-ending process that should envelop maximum number of small holders, with the objectives of increasing productivity, quality aspects and income levels of the target group. The broad objective is sustainable development of tea smallholders.
Group Methods
Demonstrations
Special Programmes
Mass Media Programes
Extension Progress
Soil Sample Testing
  2. Extension Interventions

Innovations obtained through research extension linkage are disseminated to farmers through a well established institutional network. In general, a commodity approach is adopted where coordinating inputs necessary adopt new recommendations strengthens extension messages to smallholders. Parallel and independent smallholder society network help in this approach  

This Network is further strengthened by regional extension centers attached to regions and a national training Center, which fulfills farmer as well as institutional training needs.

Extension activities of the institution are carried out mainly by the TI/EO s at the field level in collaboration with the societies and following methods are used at present.
   
Individual extension

Formal   -  A Small number of pre-identified farmers are regularly visited  facilitating appropriate advice

Informal -  TI/EO s visit farmers without a set programme, either on request by the farmers or on an ad hoc basis whilst in the field.  
   
Group Methods
Several types of group approaches are used such as training classes, Field days, Field tours and seminars. A planned approach is used in the form of a quarterly extension programme. Smallholder Development Societies are generally involved in planning and organizing these programmes.
   
Demonstrations
Demonstration plots are mostly located at our regional extension centers.
   
Special Programmes
These also are of group type. These are programmes usually with a targeted approach to achieve a set objective.
   
Mass media programmes
Electronic    -   Mainly confined to radio programmes such as "Swarna Pathra" , Tea Shakthi quiz, etc.

Publications -   The Institution has published several booklets, which are sold to the small holders. In addition to this, locally produced leaflets are occasionally used at the field level.

   
3. Soil Sample Testing
 
4. Extension Progress
  Progress achieved in relevant areas are noted below.
4.1 Extension Programes
Year
Group Extension Programmes
Individual Visits
No of Programmes
Farmer Participation
2001
 7730
 189252
 6607
2002
 6775
 177105
 8710
2003
 5219
 138012
 7865
2004
 5959
 153627
 14795
2005
 6619
 162697
 31370
2006 8054 236048 32261