Marketing Problems Faced by Sugarcane Farmers in Erode District: A Comprehensive Study
Author : Dr. K Ramesh, Dr. K Visvanathan and Dr. S Maheskumar
Abstract :
Sugarcane cultivation holds substantial socio-economic significance in Erode district, Tamil Nadu, providing livelihood to a large segment of the agricultural community. Despite its importance and the region’s optimal agro-climatic conditions, sugarcane farmers grapple with a multitude of marketing problems that severely impact their returns and sustainability. This research article delves into the core marketing challenges faced by these farmers, identifies underlying causes, and assesses the effectiveness of support mechanisms. Data for this empirical study were collected from primary and secondary sources, using a structured questionnaire and review of scholarly articles. The findings reveal that the most pressing constraints include lack of remunerative prices, delayed payments, dependency on intermediaries, transportation difficulties, inadequate storage and processing facilities, unpredictable government procurement policies, and insufficient access to timely market information. The study concludes with targeted recommendations aimed at policymakers, cooperatives, and stakeholders to establish a more equitable and efficient marketing system for sugarcane farmers in Erode district.
Keywords :
Sugarcane, sustainability, payments, transportation, intermediaries, jaggery.
