Vol. 7, Issue 5, Part D (2025)

This study analyzes the marketing structure and challenges of sugarcane farmers in Lakhimpur District, Uttar Pradesh, which is a key sugarcane-producing region in India. Based on primary data collected from 100 respondents selected from one block and several villages, the research explores the socio-economic profile, marketing channels, price spread, and constraints in sugarcane marketing. Findings reveal that 65% of farmers sell directly to sugar mills, while 20% use commission agents, and 15% sell through local traders and jaggery processors. Though direct sale to sugar mills provides standard pricing, delays in payment (15-30 days) and transportation issues are major concerns. In contrast, selling to traders or jaggery units ensures immediate cash payment but at a lower price. The socio-economic analysis shows that 74% of respondents are male, with 48% aged between 31-50 years. Education levels are mostly primary to secondary, and around 62% of respondents are marginal or small farmers (less than 2 hectares). Sugarcane contributes over 70% of household income for most farmers. Using Garrett Ranking, the most critical marketing constraints identified are: Delayed payments from mills (mean score: 72.6), Lack of transport facilities (mean score: 65.4), Low price realization (mean score: 60.3) Price spread analysis shows that the producer’s share in consumer rupees is highest in direct marketing (~92%) and lowest in trader-mediated sales (~76%). The study suggests timely mill payments, better rural transport, and support for cooperative marketing to improve efficiency and farmer welfare.