Value chain analysis in relation to processing and marketing of three underutilized fruits in India
J.N. Daniel
ISHS Acta Horticulturae 806:505-512 . 2008.
2008
บทคัดย่อ
Value chain analysis in relation to processing and marketing of three underutilized fruits in India
The environmental conditions in India are favourable for the successful cultivation of a wide range of fruits, but commercial production is limited to a smaller number of species. Many fruit species are known for their high nutritive value and adaptability to environmental extremes, but remain underutilized without significant presence in terms of production or income generation. A value chain analysis was carried out to understand processing and marketing-related aspects of Indian gooseberry (Emblicaofficinalis; known locally as ‘amla’), tamarind (Tamarindusindica), and kokum (Garciniaindica). The common production system is agroforestry for ‘amla’ and scattered trees for tamarind and kokum. Irrespective of the system, profit distribution patterns are similar for all three species. Fresh and processed fruits of these species are dependent on intermediaries for marketing. Therefore, the share of the value addition that reaches the farmers and primary processors is very small. Therefore, alternative models of production and processing have to be evolved to realise the environmental and economic benefits of underutilized fruit species.