A study on identification, documentation and marketing behaviour of underutilized vegetables in Kalyana Karnataka region

DOI: 10.22161/ijeab.114.22

Abstract:
A study was conducted in Kalyan Karnataka region of Karanataka state during the year 2023-24 to identify and document the underutilized vegetables of the study area. The exploratory research design was employed in conduct of the study. Primary data were collected by using the questionnaire prepared for the study, a snow ball method of data collection were used to collect data due to lack of underutilized vegetables collecting and marketing farmers list. The suitable statistical tools like frequency and percentage are used for the analysis and tabulation of the data. In this study ten underutilized vegetables were identified, their common name, scientific name, family, health benefits and their images were documented. The identified vegetables are pigweed, joyweed, basale, nelabasale, brahmi, pointed gourd, moringa leaves, little wild gourd, safflower leaves and chickepea leaves. The results of the study revealed that majority of the farmers sold these underutilized vegetables directly to the consumer and low percent of middle men involved in the marketing. With respect to consumption pattern majority consumed these vegetables seasonally followed by rarely and never. Lack of knowledge regarding health benefits (92.86%) and non commercial production system (90.00%) are the major constraints for the underutilizing these vegetables. Vast potential of underutilized vegetables contributing significantly to the livelihood of the rural population, enhancing food and nutritional security and fostering sustainable agricultural development, hence government has to initiate the promotional activities for these underutilized fruit crops and provide the platform to sell their vegetables at suitable price. Underutilized vegetables in the Kalyana Karnataka region offer a unique opportunity to promote nutritional diversity, climate resilience, and local food traditions. With proper support through policy, awareness, and market linkages, these neglected crops can become mainstream contributors to sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Keywords:
Kalyana Karnataka, Underutilized vegetables, marketing, consumption

Article Info:
Received: 16 Jun 2026; Received in revised form: 15 Jul 2026; Accepted: 20 Jul 2026; Available online: 27 Jul 2026

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