Constraints faced by Sub-urban Vegetable growers

Abstract

The present study was carried out in Pune district, located in the state of Maharashtra. This district was chosen due to its high levels of urbanization, industrial development and rapid population growth. Haveli tahsil was selected for the study on the basis of level of urbanization. Within Haveli, twelve villages were chosen. From each village, ten vegetable growers were selected using a simple random sampling method, resulting in a total sample size of 120 respondents. An ex-post facto research design was used for research. An interview schedule was prepared to gather the required information. The collected data was analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques. Study inferred that the major constraints expressed by suburban vegetable grower were, price fluctuations in markets (Rank I), lack of cold storage facilities (Rank II), weed proliferation (Rank III), decline in soil fertility (Rank IV),damage to vegetable crop due to insect, pest and disease attacks (Rank V), High costs of fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides and bactericides (Rank VI), drip irrigation system requires frequent replacement (Rank VII), Land holdings are decreasing (Rank VIII), risk of leopard attacks (Rank IX) and use of polluted water for irrigation purposes causes skin diseases (Rank X). The major suggestions given by sub-urban vegetable growers were, cold storage facility should be made available (Rank I), growing multiple crops (Rank II), regularly flush the laterals and mainlines (Rank III), adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation to reduce water wastage (Rank IV), collective marketing through FPOs (Rank V), filtration units at water inlets should be installed Rank (VI), use of organic compost and green manures (Rank VII) and leopard cages should be installed (Rank VIII). The findings of the study have several important
implications for improving the livelihoods of sub-urban vegetable growers. Strengthening extension services through hands-on training can enhance farmer’s decision-making ability. Addressing soil health concerns through sustainable techniques like crop rotation and the use of organic inputs is essential to restore fertility and build resilience. Market price fluctuations can be managed more effectively by promoting the use of mobile apps for real-time price tracking. High fertilizer costs and declining soil quality highlight the need for regular soil testing and awareness programs on soil health management. Moreover, integrated pest and weed
management practices, including the use of insect-proof nets, sticky traps and cultural methods like intercropping, can reduce crop damage and input dependency, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and profitable vegetable farming.