The Transition in India: An Integrated View

Abstract

The impact of reforms is not just the emergence of new marketing channels, but the variety of the channels generated is fascinating. The new channels appear more efficient in reducing unwanted marketing costs and margins than the traditional channels they replace or compete with, and the efficiency varies with the length of the channels. However, sensitivity to the farm size of the prospective participant especially when the channel is private sector driven is a cause of concern for equity. Traditional traders cannot also be relegated to their fate especially in light of the important role they play in information dissemination among producers.