Market analysis of pesticides for paddy crop

Judicious use of quality pesticideshelps to reduce the crop losses, provide economic benefits to farmer and help in ensuring food safety and security for the nation. Production in the Indian pesticide industry has remained stable at 82,000 -85,000 MT in FY 012-13. The Indian pesticides industry is dominated by insecticides, whereas globally herbicides and fungicides are the key segments. This research has been done under sponsorship of Excel Crop Care Limited in paddy crop of Kelwara Region of Baran District of Rajasthan. Main purpose of the research was to develop market for Excel Crop Care products in paddy crop. A descriptive research design developed, judgmental sampling for villages (15) selection and convenience sampling was used for farmer (150) and dealers (7) selection. Study concluded that UPL, Excel, and PI are major players for paddy crop in study area. Total market size is 306 lakh (Fungicides – 147 lakh, Insectides – 90 lakh and Herbicides – 90 lakh). Market sizes of Excel crop care is about 21.57 per cent. Field problem occurrence in the study area (on the basis of farmers) - 54 per cent by fungus followed by 30 per cent insects and 16 per cent weeds. Company name, quality, application method of product and dealers recommendations are most preferred factorsof farmers’ preference for brand selection, what are the parameters they consider during buying any pesticide. Demonstrations, farmer's meeting, and individual contacts are most preferred promotional activities. Margin is most important for dealers and unexpected rewards are least. UPL is leading player in term of promotional activities while Excel crop care ltd. is third according to dealer's opinion. Further we can explore the analysis of gap of demand and supply of pesticide in the study area for paddy crop.