International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Arun Kumar and Jayant Zechariah

abstract
TheGroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important legume crop cultivated for food, oil, and industrial purposes. This study was conducted in Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh to analyze the socio-economic profile of groundnut growers, marketing channels, efficiency, price spread, and constraints in production and marketing. A multistage stratified random sampling method was used to select 100 farmers from three purposively selected villages in Atrauli block, classified by landholding size. Primary data were collected through personal interviews, while secondary data were obtained from government records, reports, and literature. Results revealed that the majority of farmers were marginal (37.71%) and smallholders (27.30%), predominantly young (20-35 years, 43%) and male (77.78%). Marketing of groundnut involved three channels, with the Producer ? Wholesaler ? Retailer ? Consumer channel being most preferred (53.33%) but less efficient (2.15%). Key production constraints included high input costs and lack of awareness regarding plant protection measures, while marketing was hindered by price fluctuations and insufficient market information. The study highlights the need for improved extension services, quality input availability, and transparent marketing practices to enhance productivity and profitability for groundnut farmers in Aligarh.