Examination of constraints and recommendations in maize production and marketing in the northern coastal region of Andhra Pradesh through Garrett’s ranking method

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the obstacles confronted by maize cultivators in the Northern Coastal Region of Andhra Pradesh during the production and marketing of maize. Various responses were gathered to pinpoint the limitations experienced by maize growers in both production and marketing processes. The viewpoints of selected maize growers were solicited to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they encountered. Subsequently, the recommendations offered by maize growers were recorded and analyzed. To identify the hurdles faced by maize farmers in maize production, Garrett's ranking technique was employed, which entailed assigning ranks and computing the total mean (score). The results indicated that the primary constraints in maize farming were the high level of risk and uncertainty in returns, along with the unavailability of quality seeds. Concerning marketing obstacles, the absence of a government procurement system and the lack of cooperative marketing were recognized as significant limitations. Furthermore, in terms of socio-personal constraints, the lack of awareness regarding the latest technologies and low self-confidence were identified as major challenges faced by maize farmers. The suggestions presented by the maize farmers included enhancing awareness about new technologies and techniques, reducing the involvement of intermediaries during the marketing of produce, offering timely credit facilities, and motivating farmers to store their produce and sell it during off-peak seasons by providing market information.