Title: DETERMINANTS OF KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF KRISHI COMMUNITY RADIO PROGRAMMES AMONG THE LISTENERS

Authors: Sowmya B. N., Surekha Sankangoudar and Manjula Patil

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: radio, KCRS, preference, knowledge, utilization

Volume: 39

Issue: 1

Year: June 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2025.39.1.0007

Abstract: In the information age, community radio plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between agricultural research and rural farmers. This study explores the Krishi Community Radio Station (KCRS), run by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, focusing on listener preferences and factors influencing knowledge and programme utilization. The study was conducted in Dharwad district (2023-24) using an ex-post facto design, 120 purposively selected KCRS listeners (Farmers) from eight villages were surveyed. Statistical tools like Correlation, Garrett Ranking, and Regression Analysis were employed. Programmes such as Varada Basanna, Farmers Interview, avind dramatized formats were highly preferred for their relatable and engaging nature. Farmers expressed a need for timely, practical content on inputs, technologies, and expert interaction. Significant positive relationships emerged between knowledge/utilization and factors like social participation, mass media exposure, and social media use. Regression results showed that media exposure and social participation influenced knowledge, while education and media exposure impacted practical application. The study emphasizes the value of participatory formats, media reinforcement, and community involvement. It concludes that for stations like KCRS to foster rural development, content must be relevant, accessible and delivered through interactive, diverse platforms.