Socio-Economic Profile and Constraints Analysis of Carrot Growers in Hosur Taluk, Tamil Nadu, India
Chowdula Shireesha
Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu – 608 002, India.
M. Karthikeyan *
Department of Agricultural Economics, JSA College of Agriculture and Technology, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu – 606 108, India.
T. Kathiroli
Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Sciences, School of Agricultural Sciences, Takshashila University, Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu – 604 001, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Carrot cultivation in Hosur, a major horticultural hub of Tamil Nadu, has expanded commercially due to urban market demand, but concerns remain over stagnant productivity and inefficient resource use despite increasing cultivated area.
Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the growth performance of carrots over the last decade, analyze the socio-economic characteristics of growers, and identify production and marketing constraints in Hosur Taluk.
Study Design: A two-stage random sampling technique was adopted for primary data collection. Secondary data were analyzed using growth models.
Place and Duration of Study: Hosur Taluk, Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu. Primary survey: 2024-2025; Secondary data analysis: 2015-2025.
Methodology: Primary data were collected from 120 farmers. Compound Growth Rate (CGR) was calculated using the exponential function. Garrett’s Ranking Technique was used to prioritize farmer constraints.
Results: The area under carrot cultivation showed an accelerated growth rate of 7.12% per annum, while production grew at 6.85%. Productivity, however, showed a stagnant trend (-0.25%). Socio-economic results indicated a 45% illiteracy rate among respondents. "Incidence of Pests and Diseases" (Score 54.67) and "Price Fluctuation" (Score 54.95) were the top-ranked constraints.
Conclusion: Despite horizontal expansion in area, vertical growth (productivity) is limited by technical gaps and market volatility. Strengthening extension services and cold chain infrastructure is essential.
Keywords: Carrot, compound growth rate, Garrett’s ranking, socio-economic profile, Hosur, Krishnagiri