A Study on the Role of Cold Chain in Improving Market Access for Indian Farmers

Abstract

Agriculture continues to be a important source of income for a sizable section of the Indian people; however, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure limits farmers’ participation in competitive markets. Insufficient cold chain infrastructure, in particular, has become a major contributor to high post-harvest losses, income instability, and limited access to organized and distant markets, especially for perishable agricultural commodities. This study examines the effects of coldchain infrastructure on market access for Indian farmers by integrating secondary evidence with primary field data.The research utilises secondary data from Government of India reports and publications by organisations including the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and India Brand Equity Foundation, as well as industry and policy reports. Additionally, primary data were gathered from 250 farmers to evaluate the on-ground impacts of cold chain accessibility. Secondary data indicate that post-harvest losses for perishable produce in. Analysis of primary data confirms that access to cold chain facilities substantially reduces post-harvest losses, increases operational efficiency, and strengthens farmers’ participation in organized and distant markets. Statistical results demonstrate strong positive associations between cold chain availability and improved price realisation, broader market reach, and decreased distress sales. Factor analysis further indicates that cold chain–enabled market access contributes significantly to income stability and the overall sustainability of farmers' livelihoods.The study concludes that cold chain infrastructure serves not only as a storage and logistics mechanism but also as a strategic enabler of market integration, farmer welfare, and agricultural value chain efficiency. Strengthening cold chain systems through targeted policy interventions, decentralized infrastructure development, and institutional coordination, including initiatives led by The National Center for Cold-chain Development (NCCD) has the potential to significantly improve farmer earnings, lower food losses, and promote sustainable agricultural growth in India.