Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is a vital crop in semi-arid regions of India, contributing significantly to local economies and nutrition. However, substantial post-harvest losses (PHL) across the tamarind supply chain—particularly due to inefficient handling, inadequate storage, and poor transportation—pose serious threats to food security and farmer income. This study aims to quantify PHL in tamarind at farm, wholesale, and retail levels in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, and identify key loss points and causes. Using a structured sampling approach, data were collected from 5 farmers, 5 wholesalers, and 5 retailers across selected villages and market yards. Results showed that farm-level losses were the highest, amounting to 1,897.6 kg or 27.9% of production, primarily due to manual harvesting using bamboo poles, improper sorting, and inadequate curing and packaging. While specific loss quantities at the wholesale and retail stages were not numerically documented, field observations indicated significant deterioration due to high moisture, microbial spoilage, poor ventilation, and lack of climate-controlled storage. Contributing factors included the use of gunny bags, delayed transit, and exposure to fluctuating humidity at retail stalls. The study concludes with actionable recommendations such as adopting mechanical harvest tools, introducing improved packaging, and strengthening post-harvest infrastructure. Reducing these losses is essential for improving food availability, enhancing supply chain sustainability, and boosting the livelihoods of tamarind producers and traders.
Author(s) Details
P. Deepthi
Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. YSRHU-HRS, Mahanandi, India.
B. Srinivasulu
Dr. YSRHU, Venkataramannagudem, India.
Please see the book
here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/asti/v3/5753
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