Value Chain Analysis of Wheat in North Karnataka, India

Abstract

The world desperately needs a change in the global food system that will result in more nutritious food for everyone and a significant reduction in the environmental impact of agriculture. The present study was conducted in selected districts of North Karnataka during 2022-23. To study the value chain mapping, primary data have been collected through the survey method by adopting a multistage random sampling technique. The value chain highlighted the involvement of diverse actors who participated directly or indirectly in the value chain. Different actors identified in the study area were input suppliers, farmers, traders and commission agents, wholesalers, retailers, and ultimately consumers. Three channels were placed in the value chain system of raw wheat grain in the study area. The results revealed that the degree of value addition on raw wheat grains at the retailer level was highest (11.14% and 11.34%) in channels I and II, respectively. Because the quantity sold through retailers was less, there was also less risk regarding spoilage of produce. With respect to the four primary processing product value addition results, processing units were substantially contributing more value addition as compared to the other two intermediaries in the value chain. Processing units require huge capital investment and plenty of resources.