INFORMATION NEEDS OF PADDY GROWERS IN BANKURA DISTRICT OF WEST BENGAL

Agriculture forms the backbone of the Indian economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the nation's GDP. Paddy is a staple and a major agricultural product among the various crops grown in India. In West Bengal, Bankura district stands out for its paddy cultivation. Understanding the information needs of paddy growers in this region is crucial for enhancing productivity, ensuring food security, and improving the socio-economic status of farmers. This study aims to explore the specific information needs of paddy growers in Bankura district, identifying key areas where knowledge gaps exist and suggesting ways to address these gaps through effective dissemination of information.