Market analysis on insecticide usage patterns for vegetable crops in Krishnagiri district in Tamil Nadu

This study examines insecticide usage patterns among vegetable farmers in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, reflecting the growing importance of insecticides in safeguarding crop health amidst increasing pest pressures. The global insecticide market is expanding rapidly, with India being the fourth-largest producer of agrochemicals and a significant exporter. Insecticides are essential for controlling pests such as thrips, whiteflies and various caterpillars, which can cause substantial yield losses. Using a stratified simple random sampling method, data were collected from 300 farmers across 25 villages in Hosur tehsil between May 2024 and June 2024. The research assessed socio-economic profiles, insecticide usage patterns and the sources of information for purchase decisions. Findings reveal that local agricultural dealers are the primary source of information, with a notable preference among farmers for brands such as BASF and IIL. Most farmers reported using insecticides primarily during the Kharif season, suggesting seasonal dependency. The study also highlights a tendency among farmers to favour specific brands over extended periods, reflecting brand loyalty and trust in local suppliers. Overall, the results provide valuable insights into the practices and challenges faced by vegetable farmers, which can help inform agricultural policies and marketing strategies for insecticide producers in the region.