Understanding Contract Farming Adoption: A Study of Onion Farmers’ Attitude and Constraints in Bhavnagar District of Gujarat

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Page: 1036-1039

Thanth Jayeshbhai R., Swati Sharma, and Likhila B. (ASPEE Agribusiness Management Institute, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat)

Contract farming has emerged as a strategic model to integrate small and marginal farmers into formal agricultural value chains, offering benefits such as assured markets, improved input access, and reduced marketing risk. This study investigates the attitudes of onion farmers in Bhavnagar District, Gujarat, towards contract farming and identifies the key constraints limiting its adoption. Using a descriptive research design, primary data were collected from 150 purposively selected onion growers in Mahuva and Talaja talukas through a structured questionnaire. The analysis of farmers’ attitudes, based on a 5-point Likert scale, revealed an optimistic attitude toward contract farming. Respondents acknowledged its advantages in enhancing quality production, improving access to inputs, and mitigating marketing risks. However, concerns about loss of autonomy, dependency on companies, and fear of contract violations were also evident. The constraint analysis highlighted “lack of insurance,” “limited decision-making power,” and “difficulty in meeting quality requirements” as the key barriers to adoption. These findings underscore the need for transparent contracts, institutional support, and farmer-oriented policy interventions to enhance trust and facilitate broader participation in contract farming. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, agribusiness firms, and extension agencies aiming to strengthen inclusive agricultural models in Gujarat and similar agro-ecological contexts.