Challenges Faced by Agri-Input Dealers in Delivering Agro-Advisory Services: Constraints and Suggestions

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this research study is to identify and analyze the various constraints faced by agricultural input dealers in delivering effective agro-advisory services in the districts of Kannauj and Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, the study seeks to provide recommendations for enhancing these services through specialized training, improved communication strategies, and increased collaboration among manufacturers, researchers, and farmers. Study Design: Ex-post facto research design was used for the study. Place and Duration of Study: Central Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh was selected for the study from which Kannauj and Farrukhabad districts of were chosen purposively. From each district 5-5 blocks were chosen randomly between 2022-2023. Methodology: The study employed a multistage stratified random sampling method to ensure a representative sample from each block. From the each selected block, 25 input dealers were selected randomly for study, who had minimum 5 year of dealership experience, thus, total 250 input dealers were finalized for the present study, who were involved in providing both agricultural inputs and extension services to farmers. Results: The study identified key constraints faced by input dealers in providing agro-advisory services, including insufficient field diagnostic abilities, inadequate technical competence, and limited communication with farmers. Socio-economic challenges such as unprofitable diagnostic visits and insufficient dealer networks were prominent. To address these issues, recommendations included specialized training, improved communication strategies, and enhanced collaboration between dealers, manufacturers, and farmers, emphasizing the need for institutional support and regionally tailored advisory services. Conclusion: The study concludes that addressing diagnostic, communication, and financial challenges through training, collaboration, and institutional support is essential to improve agro-advisory services and enhance agricultural productivity.