Vol. 12, Special Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Hari Krishna N and Dr. Ameesh John Stephen

Abstract:
Supply chain management is a critical aspect of the agribusiness sector as it plays a significant role in ensuring the effective and efficient movement of agricultural products from the farm to the consumer. The Tea supply chain in Tamil Nadu is no exception, and it faces several challenges that impact its overall performance. This study aimed to explore the supply chain management of Tea in Tamil Nadu, with a focus on identifying the key challenges and opportunities for improvement. The Tea industry is one of the most significant industries in India, with Tamil Nadu being one of the leading states in Tea production. Supply chain management plays a crucial role in the success of the Tea industry as it involves the coordination of activities between various players, from farmers to Tea co-operatives to end consumers. The aim of this study is to analyse the supply chain management practices of the Tea industry in Tamil Nadu and identify potential areas of improvement. The study utilizes a mixed-method approach consisting of both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The data collection includes a survey of Tea farmers and interviews with Tea co-operative representatives, wholesalers, and retailers. The study analyses the data using descriptive statistics and content analysis to identify the current practices and challenges in the Tea supply chain in Tamil Nadu. The findings indicate that the Tea supply chain in Tamil Nadu is characterized by various challenges such as lack of transparency, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient coordination among players. The study further identifies several potential areas for improvement, including the use of technology for supply chain management, improving logistics and transportation infrastructure, and strengthening the coordination among different players in the supply chain. The study identified several opportunities for improving the Tea supply chain in Tamil Nadu, including the development of better storage facilities, improvement of road infrastructure, the establishment of information systems, and the development of direct linkages between farmers and consumers. The study also recommended the establishment of producer organizations to help farmers access credit, improve bargaining power, and enhance their engagement in the supply chain. The study contributes to the existing literature on supply chain management in the Tea industry by providing insights into the specific challenges and opportunities in Tamil Nadu. The findings of this study can be useful for policymakers, industry players, and other stakeholders to develop effective strategies for improving the Tea supply chain management in the state. Further research could investigate the implementation of proposed strategies and their impact on the Tea supply chain in Tamil Nadu.