Marketing Efficiency, Price Spread and Constraints in Papaya Marketing: An Empirical Analysis from Durg District of Chhattisgarh

Abstract

The present study examines the disposal pattern, marketing channels, price spread, producer’s share in consumer’s rupee, and constraints in production and marketing of papaya across different farm sizes. The findings reveal that marketable surplus increases with farm size, reaching 1617.77 quintals per farm on large holdings, while home consumption decreases proportionately. Overall, 99.60% of production was marketed, indicating strong commercialization. Two marketing channels were identified: Channel–I (Producer–Retailer–Consumer) and Channel–II (Producer–Commission Agent–Wholesaler–Retailer–Consumer). Although 98.03% of produce moved through Channel–II, Channel–I was found to be more efficient, with lower marketing cost (₹52.40/q) and higher producer’s share (51.43%) compared to Channel–II (44.59%). The price spread was substantially higher in Channel–II due to commission charges (8%) and intermediary margins. Garrett ranking analysis indicated that high seedling cost and labour scarcity were major production constraints, while small marketable surplus and lack of storage facilities were dominant marketing constraints. The study suggests strengthening direct marketing channels, improving storage infrastructure, and enhancing institutional support to improve farmer income and marketing efficiency.