Some important tree spice based NTFP’s of Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka and their marketing channels

Abstract

An attempt has been made to document market information of some important Tree spices in Sirsi and Siddapur talukas of Uttara Kannada District during 2005-2006. Forest dwellers mainly depend on some tree spices for their survival and growth. Tree spice marketing is a process which starts with a harvest in wild that can be sold in an organized/ unorganized market. It involves activities, comprising the process of collecting the products and services from producer to the end users. However, simple value additions increase the selling price at primary, collector level and industrial level. Among the tree spice studied (Uppage, Kokam, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Zumma), the Myristica seeds fetch lowest price, whereas arils of Myristica fetch highest price. There was greater reduction in price of Uppage during the period 2000-2005. In general, two marketing channels viz. substantial use and sale to private traders/middlemen were identified in the study area. Lack of market information has been found to make the primary collectors to resort on thirsty middlemen. The processor, who is making substantial efforts to add value, is getting a lion share of the end user price.