Production and Marketing Constraints in Turmeric in Telangana

Abstract

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an important spice crop and is popularly known as ‘Yellow gold’. Turmeric plays a vital role
as its ingredient curcumin is widely utilized for cosmetic, culinary, dye, and medicinal purposes. It also holds significant importance
in religious ceremonies. The present study was conducted in Nizamabad, Jagtial and Nirmal districts of Telangana during the year
2021-22 with the objective of identifying the constraints faced by the turmeric farmers in production and marketing of turmeric with
a sample size of 240 respondents. The respondents were interviewed personally through a well structured and pre-tested
schedule and Garrett’s ranking technique was used to rank the problems. The results of the study revealed that, labour shortage
and high cost of labour during peak season was identified and ranked as first constraint. This was followed by high cost of FYM,
lack of processing facilities, non availability of improved varieties, and inadequate access to credit etc., which were identified as
other major production constraints. Whereas, in marketing of turmeric, lack of minimum support price was identified as the major
constraint followed by price fluctuations, high charges by commission agents, lack of assaying facilities, delay in payment by the
marketing agencies and lack of transportation facilities. Provision of MSP, measures to stabilise turmeric prices, and provision of
assaying facilities for quality certification would help the farmers to compete in international market and to fetch high prices. Hence,
the study suggested for coordinated efforts of various stakeholders to address the constraints in production and marketing of
Turmeric.