A Study on Awareness of Export Finance Schemes Regarding Oranges in Amravati District
Utkarsh C. Kubade, Dr. P. R. Gumble
Author 1 - PG student – Department of Business Administration, SIPNA C.O.E.T., Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
Author 2 – Professor/Associate/Assistant Professor – Department of Business Administration, SIPNA C.O.E.T., Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
ABSTRACT:
Agricultural exports play an important role in improving farmers’ income and strengthening the rural economy of India. Orange cultivation is a major horticultural activity in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, which has significant potential for domestic as well as export markets. Despite the availability of various export finance schemes, the participation of orange growers in export activities remains limited. This study aims to analyze the level of awareness, accessibility, and utilization of export finance schemes among orange growers and exporters in Amravati district.The study is based on primary data collected from 100 farmers and exporters through structured questionnaires and Google Forms. The findings reveal that awareness about export finance schemes is very low. About 77% of respondents are not aware, 14% are partially aware, and only 9% are fully aware of export finance facilities. Most farmers are familiar only with cooperative bank export loans, while awareness about NABARD-related schemes is extremely limited.The utilization of export finance schemes is also found to be poor. Only 10 farmers have used any export finance scheme, whereas 90 respondents have never availed such facilities. The major reasons identified for non-utilization include low awareness, lack of proper guidance, and complex documentation procedures. Many farmers find the loan application process difficult and time-consuming, which discourages them from approaching formal financial institutions.The study further indicates that farmers who have access to adequate institutional support and guidance show a higher willingness to participate in export activities. Respondents agreed that export finance schemes are useful and adequate, but their effectiveness is restricted due to poor outreach and implementation at the grassroots level.The study concludes that improving awareness, simplifying procedures, and strengthening the role of cooperative banks and institutions like NABARD are essential to enhance the utilization of export finance schemes. Effective implementation can significantly improve export participation and income levels of orange growers in Amravati district.
