Economic analysis of french beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Amritsar district of Punjab

The present paper discusses cost and return structure, price spread and marketing efficiency in different marketing channels of French beans. Primary and secondary data were collected to achieve the objectives of the study. Simple percentages, averages and Acharya method of measuring marketing efficiency were used for the analysis of the data. The study found that returns over variable cost was the highest on small farms (Rs.28675/acre) followed by medium (Rs.26227/acre) and large farms (Rs.24986). The share of labor cost (47.38 %) and seed cost (16.39 %) was maximum in total variable cost of French bean cultivation. The results further revealed that three marketing channels were identified in the study area. The marketing efficiency and producers share in consumer’s rupee was maximum in channel II (Producer-Retailer -Consumer). Major production and marketing constraints were COVID related restrictions, high labor cost, expensive seed and insecticides, low market demand and fluctuations in prices. The study suggested that government should make available seeds, insecticides and other inputs at subsidized rates to promote vegetable production in the state. The study also suggested that to increase the share in consumer’s rupee there should be direct delivery of fruits and vegetables to consumers through SHGs., FPOs, and cooperative marketing.