Perceived constraints in agro-processing in unorganized agri-businesses: Learning from Trans-Gangetic Plains

Abstract

Agro-processing within the production catchment has the potential to enhance farmers’ income, reducing post- harvest losses, and generating rural employment in India. A study was carried out during 2019–22 to identify the constraints impacting performance of agro-processing units being run by the unorganized sector in Trans-Gangetic Plains. A total of 60 current and 60 potential agro-processing farmers were undertaken using simple random technique to carry out the study. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches were used in collecting data. Data were analyzed using Friedman's, Nemenyi's and Kruskal-Wallis's tests. Study highlighted the issues that current agro- processors encounter, various constraits including high interest rates, inadequate storage, few marketing avenues, slow information access, and expensive equipment maintenance. Further, the challenges faced by aspiring agro-processors were information deficits, marketing and high operating expenses. The insights suggest measures to promote the adoption of post-harvest technologies among stakeholders.