Study on marketing of pigeon pea in the area of Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract:

The present study titled “Study on Marketing of Pigeon Pea in the Area of Kanpur District, Uttar Pradesh” was undertaken to analyze the production, economics, and marketing system of pigeon pea in the study area. The study specifically focused on the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, agronomic practices, input use pattern, cost and return structure, marketing channels, price spread, marketing efficiency, and major constraints faced by farmers. A multistage sampling technique was adopted, and primary data were collected from 120 pigeon pea growers selected from purposively chosen blocks and randomly selected villages in Kanpur district. Secondary data were also used from published reports, government records, and relevant literature. Analytical tools such as percentage analysis, averages, ratios, cost-return analysis, marketing efficiency measures, and econometric techniques were used for interpretation of data.The findings revealed that most of the pigeon pea growers belonged to small and marginal farm categories and were mainly middle-aged with secondary level education, indicating moderate awareness of agricultural and marketing practices. Agriculture was found to be the primary occupation, though many households diversified into allied activities for income stability. The average family size provided sufficient family labour for cultivation and post-harvest operations. Agronomic analysis showed partial adoption of improved practices such as quality seeds, recommended spacing, and fertilizers, while adoption of advanced technologies remained limited due to financial and knowledge constraints. The cost-return analysis indicated that pigeon pea cultivation is economically viable with a favorable benefit-cost ratio.Three major marketing channels were identified, with the shortest channel (Producer → Consumer) providing the highest returns and marketing efficiency, while longer channels involving intermediaries resulted in increased marketing costs and reduced farmer’s share in consumer’s rupee. Major constraints included price fluctuations, inadequate storage facilities, high transportation costs, lack of market information, and dependence on intermediaries, leading to distress sales and reduced profitability.The study concludes that strengthening storage infrastructure, improving market access, promoting direct marketing, and encouraging Farmer Producer Organizations and value addition activities are essential to enhance marketing efficiency and farmers’ income in the study area.