Sundaraswamy, BBirajdar, V M2019-08-142019-08-142002No. of references 96http://krishikosh.egranth.ac.in/handle/1/5810121808Study on the knowledge level of farmers and extension personnel about the ill - efiects of agricultural chemicals was carried out in Karnataka during 2001-02. By following proportionate random sampling 120 farmers were selected and data was collected by personal interview method. Extension personnel were given questionnaires at their respective hoblis of which 60 extension personnel mailed by the questionnaires. The important findings of the study were; 50.00 per cent of farmers and 36.00 per cent of extension personnel had medium level of knowledge about ill- effects of agricultural chemicals. Ill-effects of agricultural chemicals perceived by majority of farmers and extension personnel were killing of 100 natural enemies and beneficial organisms, increase in resistance in pests and weeds, pollution of air and water bodies, effect on soil processes such as organic matter decomposition and soil enzyme activity, effect on human health such as irritation to skin, eyes and lung problems. Majority of farmers and extension personnel belonged to middle age group. 43.00 per cent of farmers possessed land between 10 to 20 acres, while 25.00 per cent of them had farming experience of more than 30 years. 45.00 per cent of extension personnel had job experience of 11 - 15 years. A positive and significant relationship was obsen'ed between knowledge level and socio-psychological characteristics such as education, extension contact, mass media use, achievement motivation, innovative proneness and scientific orientation. Regarding suggestions to minimize ill -effects of agriculture chemicals, majority of farmers suggested the supply of quality grade pesticides in market, increase in use of bio-control agents, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides and resistant varieties while majority of extension personnel suggested strict use of chemicals as per recommended dose, use of integrated pest management and integrated nutrient management, while an equal importance to disseminate information regarding ill- effects of excessive use of chemicals.ennullThesis