Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Venkatesa Palanichamy N, Deepak Kumar K, Kalpana M and Santhosh Kumar M

Abstract:
Millets are considered ancient grains with high nutritional value and are important food staples in impoverished, semiarid regions of Asia and Africa. The study analyzes the price spread of sorghum and cumbu in Tamil Nadu, focusing on key districts known for millet production. In the 2017-18 season, Tamil Nadu cultivated millets across 560,448 hectares, producing 927,121 tonnes. The study surveyed 90 millet farmers using convenient sampling methods in coordination with Farmers' Producer Organizations and the Department of Agriculture. It included local traders, commission agents, wholesalers, processors, and retailers for a comprehensive perspective. Structured interviews were conducted to gather data on cultivation methods, expenses, and marketing margins. The results showed disparities in the marketing costs and margins for sorghum and cumbu. Price spread analysis revealed the difference between consumer and producer prices, with significant profits for intermediaries. The study highlighted the producer's limited share in consumer spending and the necessity of optimizing supply chain management to improve profitability for farmers and offer fair pricing to consumers. Efforts should focus on enhancing marketing efficiency and reducing costs to benefit both producers and consumers.