Price Stabilization For Sustainable Agricultural Development With Special Reference To Arecanut

Abstract

Rapid and violent fluctuations in agricultural prices have many harmful consequences. For example, steep decline in the price of a particular crop in some year can inflict heavy losses on the growers of that crop. This will reduce their income substantially and also dampen their spirits to cultivate the same crop next year. If this happens to be a staple food item of the masses, supply next year will remain considerably below the demand forcing the government to fill the gap by resorting to imports. If, on the other hand, prices of a particular crop soar very high in a particular year, the consumers are likely to suffer. Considering these factors, it becomes necessary to stabiles agricultural prices to safeguard the interest of both producers and consumers. The present study is undertaken to analyse extent of price fluctuation in areca nut and opinion about price stability from areca nut growers. The study has used both primary and secondary data to know about extent of price fluctuation in areca nut and measures taken to stablise its price by various stake holders. Primary data are collected through a structured questionnaire schedule pertaining to the objectives of the study canvassed among the selected areca nut growers in the Dakshina Kannada district. The study suggests that, it is necessary to stabilize areca nut prices to safeguard the interest of both producers and consumers.