GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ONION MARKET, A CASE STUDY OF PARNER APMC, AHILYANAGAR DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA
Keywords:
Onion Market, Parner APMC, Agricultural Economics, Price Fluctuation, Market Infrastructure, Supply Chain, Ahilyanagar District, Maharashtra, Agricultural Geography, Perishable Crop.Abstract
Agriculture plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic structure and rural livelihood. Among the various agricultural commodities, onion (Allium cepa L.) occupies a unique position as both a staple food ingredient and a major cash crop. It is indispensable to Indian cuisine and also contributes significantly to export earnings. However, onion markets are known for their high degree of price volatility, influenced by climatic conditions, seasonality, inadequate storage infrastructure, and fluctuating supply chains.
India is the second-largest producer of onions in the world after China, contributing nearly 20% of global production. Maharashtra, particularly the Nashik and Ahilyanagar districts, dominates onion production and marketing in the country. The crop’s dual role—providing both food and income—makes its geographical and economic analysis particularly important.
From a geographical standpoint, studying the onion market in Parner provides valuable insights into agro-economic spatial interactions, market linkages, and regional development patterns. This analysis emphasizes the interrelation between physical environment, agricultural productivity, and market infrastructure, highlighting the necessity of integrated market planning and modernization.
Thus, the present research Paper aims to examine the functional and spatial characteristics of the onion market, evaluate economic performance trends, and suggest measures for sustainable market management.
