Current Status of Grain Quality Assessment in APMCs for Major Cities of Gujarat, India
Panchal Nehal *
International Agribusiness Management Institute, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, India.
Deval B. Patel
Department of Food Business Management, College of FPT and Bio-Energy, Anand Agriculture University, Anand, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Agriculture is a key pillar of India’s economy, supporting over half the population and supplying essential raw materials to industries. Agricultural marketing, involving collection, storage, processing, and distribution, plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient movement of produce from farms to markets. A study was conducted to find out the current status of grain quality assessment in APMCs for major cities of Gujarat. It investigated the existing systems, challenges, and opportunities in grain quality testing across APMCs. It focused on modern tools, including AI-based machines, for enhancing transparency and efficiency. A case study was conducted on a digital agri-tech firm offering AI-powered grain assessment tools, showing how such technology benefits APMCs and farmers. A survey of 30 APMC Secretaries revealed insights into infrastructure, testing methods, and the extent of digital adoption. Most Secretaries were experienced, educated males with limited access to modern tools and training. Visual inspection remains dominant, but there's growing awareness of advanced methods. Key challenges include inadequate equipment and technical skills. Respondents emphasized the need for investments in digital systems, training, and partnerships to improve grain quality assessment across Gujarat’s APMCs.
Keywords: Grain quality assessment, APMCs (agricultural produce market committees), AI-based technology, digital Agri-tech, infrastructure and training gaps