author(s)
Akshada S Kharat, Arati A Jambhale, Dr. Pallavi S Deokate, YL Jagdale, Mitalee S Bhalerao and Prasad R Akolkar

abstract
Colour capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.), grown under shade net conditions, is a high-value horticultural crop gaining prominence due to its quality, market demand, and profitability. Protected cultivation enhances yield, quality, and income potential for farmers. The present study aims to analyse the price spread and assess the marketing efficiency of colour capsicum under shade net cultivation to identify the most remunerative marketing channels. The study was carried out in Pune district of Maharashtra, focusing on two purposively selected tahsils Baramati and Indapur based on their large area under colour capsicum cultivation. Three villages were randomly selected from each tahsil, making a total of six villages. From these, 90 colour capsicum farmers were selected and categorized into two separate groups. Primary data collected for the agricultural year 2023-24 were analysed using simple tabular methods and functional analytical tools. The analysis of production and disposal patterns of colour capsicum indicated that (99.79%) of the total produce was marketed. Two marketing channels were identified for colour capsicum, with Channel II (Producer-Wholesaler-Retailer- Consumer) being the most preferred by farmers. The highest price spread of ₹ 3387 was observed in Channel I, attributed to the greater number of intermediaries and market places involved and ₹ 729.28 for channel II.