Maximizing Marketing Efficiency: A Deep Dive Analysis into Castor crop in Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India

Castor is a vital industrial oilseed crop with a range of uses that have increased its global economic importance. The research study was conducted using primary data collected through personal interview using well-structured and pre-tested interview schedules with 125 castor farmers and 50 intermediaries were selected purposively random sampling method. The study revealed that marketing of castor, small farmers often sell to local traders due to transportation costs, while larger farmers transport directly to market for higher prices. Main markets for castor are Namakkal, Tiruchengode and Paramathi. The most efficient marketing channel for castor was found to be Producer, Village Trader and Processor i.e. Channel I followed by Producer, Wholesaler and Processor i.e. Channel II and subsequently, Producer and Processor i.e. Channel III. Major constraints identified include pests, labour shortages, monsoons failure, high input & labour costs and lack of market information. Fruitful suggestions to improve the marketing efficiency of agricultural commodities like castor, it is important to consider the benefits of value addition reaching farmers and customers. Dealing with insect pests is crucial, so farmers need access to resistant cultivars and pest management methods. Weather-based crop insurance can protect against production risks. The castor industry is hindered by a lack of infrastructure, so improvements in processing, value addition, grading, packaging, storage, and market infrastructure are necessary. Encouraging farmers to add value to castor could be a profitable strategy.