A Study on Market Availability of Organic Food Products in Upper Assam

Abstract

The definition of the word “Organic” is an ecological management production system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. It is based on the minimal use of off –farm inputs (Savithri, N. & Lavanya, B, 2019). Organic food is a term given to food which is prepared without using any harmful foreign substances, such as pesticides and preservatives. Organic farming is a system of production that relies on animal manure, organic waste, crop rotation, legumes, and biological pest control. Organic foods are produced through traditional and natural methods, sustaining the procedures of organic farming which minimises the use of synthetic chemicals. Thus Organic Food Products (OFP) are nutrient-rich and free of chemicals and pesticides. Over the decades due to increasing disposable income it made major influence on purchasing power of Indian consumers have shifted their preference and buying behaviour from traditional food to modern nutritious and hygienic food. Assam has tremendous potential to growth crops organically and emerges as a main supplier of organic products in the World’s organic market. Assam hold the third position among the Northeastern states in the area under organic farming. Currently, Assam has an area of approximately 28234.66 hectares under organic certification (CSIR-North East Institute of Science & Technology, 2014).
Objectives: The main goal of the present study was (a) to analyse the availability of organic food products in selected districts of Assam.(b) To explore the awareness level of consumers of organic food products in selected districts of Assam.
Methodology: This study was systematic and scientific in nature. Different methods and techniques are used by researchers at different stages of research to accomplish the objectives of the study. The detailed plan and structural framework used for gathering information. For this study, a purposive cum multistage random sampling design was adopted. Primary data were collected using a specially designed pre-tested schedule and questionnaire through personal and group interviews. The data received from various sources and websites were tabulated and interpreted using standard statistical tools as the Likert 5 point scale, averages, T- test, correlation and regression, cross-tabulation, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and SPSS. The data trend and past history was used to arranged at various conclusion and were interpreted in respective chapter. To conduct the survey, a standard structural questionnaire was prepared, which was divided into four different sets and comprised the required number of questions for each set, as follows.
Findings: The present study found that majority (51.66 percent) of the respondents opined that organic fruits and vegetables markets are significant. The study also indicated that consumer awareness of organic products is an important point. The analysis found that the majority (49.62 per cent) of respondents were aware of all organic food products. This study examined the opinions and perceptions of organic food product retailers, traders, consumers, farmers, and government stakeholders. The study shows that there is good potential for organic food products in Upper Assam, as there is a gradual increase in regular demand. Knowledge and awareness of organic products were quite good in the study area among customers. The study also found that the success of organic food products depends on a proper market structure and efficient supply chain management. Therefore, the government should take the initiative with proper measures and policies to promote organic products.
Implication: The present study will be helpful to future researchers for further in different directions in organic products. Policymakers and government stakeholders may use data and findings for arbitrary strategies.
Future research directions include Sustainability and Environmental impact, Nutritional and Health Benefits, Consumer Behaviour and preferences, Market Trends and Opportunities, Market segmentation and targeting, Assessing Distribution Channels, Barriers to market Entry, Impact of policy and Regulation and Consumer’s willingness to pay.