Production and marketing challenges faced by sugarcane cultivators in Namakkal district

Abstract

Sugarcane cultivation remains an integral pillar of agricultural livelihood in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Namakkal District. However, sugarcane farmers here face mounting production and marketing constraints that hinder productivity and profitability. This study adopts a mixed-method approach combining econometric modelling and qualitative inquiry to assess the agronomic, economic, and institutional barriers facing 250 farmers across five taluks. Findings reveal that red loamy soils, erratic water availability, high labour costs, and inefficient cooperative mills critically affect yields and returns. Marketing limitations such as delayed payments, price volatility, and limited access to formal markets further disincentivize investment in sugarcane. Regression analysis confirms irrigation, fertilizer, and seed as significant inputs, while Garrett ranking and thematic coding outline infrastructure and policy gaps. The study concludes by recommending integrated value-chain interventions, mechanization, market reform, and cooperative restructuring.