A analysis of paddy farmers liaison with the other stakeholders of rice exports in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh states

Strong connections with institutional and market stakeholders play a vital role in shaping farmers’ access to credit, export opportunities, technical support, and timely market information. In today’s interconnected agricultural system, farmers cannot function in isolation if they aim to improve productivity and income. Keeping this in view, the present study explores the extent to which paddy farmers maintain liaison with key stakeholders involved in rice export—exporters, rice millers and processors, APEDA officials, and bank officials—in the major rice-exporting districts of Telangana (Nizamabad and Nalgonda) and Andhra Pradesh (East and West Godavari). An ex post facto research design was followed, and 160 experienced paddy farmers (80 from each state) were purposively selected. Data were gathered using a structured interview schedule and questionnaire to understand both the frequency and overall level of their interactions with these stakeholders. The results reveal that farmers’ engagement with exporters is strikingly low in both states. A large majority of farmers—93.75 per cent in Telangana and 91.25 per cent in Andhra Pradesh—reported that they never interact with exporters. Only a small fraction had occasional contact, and none maintained regular liaison. Interaction with APEDA officials was even more limited, with 87.50 per cent of Telangana farmers and 95.00 per cent of Andhra Pradesh farmers reporting no contact at all. These patterns suggest that most farmers remain distant from formal export promotion systems and may not be fully aware of the support and opportunities available to them.On a more positive note, farmers showed moderate engagement with rice millers and processors. Around 60.00 per cent in both states reported occasional interaction, and a noticeable share maintained regular contact (40.00% in Telangana and 60.00% in Andhra Pradesh). Interaction with bank officials was comparatively stronger, indicating the importance of institutional credit in farming activities. Overall, 58.75 per cent of respondents fell into the low liaison category, followed by medium (29.38%) and high (11.87%) levels of engagement. This predominance of low interaction highlights the need for stronger institutional outreach and awareness initiatives. Strengthening farmer–stakeholder relationships can help improve market integration, income opportunities, and the long-term sustainability of rice export systems.