Department of Agriculture Economics and Management, RCA, MPUAT, Udaipur
Online Published on 10 June, 2025.
India, renowned as the "Land of Spices," is a global leader in the production, export, and consumption of spices, with seed spices such as Kasuri Methi (fenugreek leaves) playing a vital role in its agricultural economy. Kasuri Methi is widely cultivated in Rajasthan, especially in Nagaur district, where it is harvested multiple times per season. This study analyses the marketing channels, post-harvest losses, and processing economics of Kasuri Methi leaves. The primary marketing channel, Channel I (Producer ➝ Village Traders ➝ Processing Units ➝ Retailers ➝ Consumers), accounted for 64.67 per cent of total produce, primarily due to the lack of storage facilities. Post-harvest losses were significant, with an average loss of 152.16 kg per hectare, especially during the drying and harvesting stages. The processing of Kasuri Methi demonstrated profitability, with processors earning a net return of ₹ 1,000.11 per quintal, driven largely by value addition during packaging. The study found that the processor added the maximum value (6.88%) compared to other intermediaries. The findings emphasize the need for improved post-harvest handling, storage, and processing infrastructure to reduce losses and enhance value addition. Strengthening these areas will help improve the economic sustainability of Kasuri Methi production and marketing in Rajasthan.
Value chain analysis, Post-harvest losses, Marketing channel and value addition