AN ANALYSIS OF MARKET RISKS AND FARMER VULNERABILITY IN DUCK FARMING IN KERALA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KOTTAYAM DISTRICT

Abstract: Duck farming in Kerala plays a vital role in supporting the state’s agribusiness sector. However, duck farmers remain highly vulnerable to market risks which threaten the profitability of the sector. This study aims to analyze the major market risks they face and to propose policy strategies that can reduce their vulnerability. The primary data collected from 50 duck farmers through structured interviews. The findings of the study revealed that limited diversification, dependence on middlemen, inadequate value addition, lower adoption of technology, and weak cooperative structures are key risks constraining the growth of the sector. To address these challenges, the study recommends strengthening cooperatives, promoting value-added products, enhancing farmers’ digital literacy, and encouraging the adoption of modern technologies.