Study on marketing and Post-harvest losses of okra in Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract:

The present study titled “A Study on Marketing and Post-Harvest Losses of Okra in Prayagraj District of Uttar Pradesh” was undertaken to analyze the marketing system, socio-economic characteristics of farmers, marketing channels, marketing costs, price spread, producer’s share in consumer’s rupee, marketing efficiency, post-harvest losses, and constraints faced by okra growers in the study area. The study was based on primary data collected from 100 randomly selected okra growers from Meja block of Prayagraj district, along with secondary data obtained from relevant publications and departmental records. Appropriate statistical tools such as percentages, averages, ratios, price spread analysis, and marketing efficiency measures were used for data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that most of the okra growers belonged to the middle-age group (30–50 years) and had secondary-level education, indicating moderate awareness and adoption of improved agricultural practices. The majority of respondents were small and marginal farmers, highlighting the importance of okra cultivation in supporting rural livelihoods. Agriculture was found to be the primary occupation, although some farmers also engaged in dairy, business, and service activities for income diversification. The average family size was relatively large, reflecting the importance of family labour in farming operations. The study identified three major marketing channels for okra, with the producer–retailer–consumer channel being most commonly used, while direct marketing provided the highest producer share and marketing efficiency. Results showed that marketing costs and price spread increased with the involvement of intermediaries, leading to a reduction in the farmer’s share in consumer price. Post-harvest losses were found to be significant, ranging from 9 to 12 percent, mainly due to improper harvesting practices, inadequate packaging, lack of cold storage facilities, and transportation constraints. The study concludes that improving marketing infrastructure, strengthening cold storage and transportation facilities, promoting direct marketing and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and enhancing access to market information are essential to reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmers’ income in the study area.