IMPACT OF E-AUCTION ON KERALA’S SPICE SECTOR: A STUDY ON CARDAMOM CULTIVATORS IN IDUKKI DISTRICT

Abstract

The adoption of e-auction as a transparent and technology-driven platform for the sale of cardamom has brought significant transformation in Kerala’s spice sector. This study aims to evaluate the impact of e-auction on the cardamom market and its implications for cultivators in the Idukki district, with particular focus on factors influencing its adoption. The specific objectives include: (1) identifying the benefits and challenges faced by farmers in using e-auction, (2) examining the relationship between e-auction participation and price realisation, and (3) determining socio-economic and institutional factors influencing adoption. A descriptive and analytical research design was adopted. The study is based on primary data collected through direct interviews with 150 randomly selected farmers in Udumbumchola Panchayat, Idukki district. A structured interview schedule was used as the main research tool. Analytical techniques included the Garret Ranking Test to prioritise the challenges faced and logistic regression analysis to identify the determinants of e-auction adoption, using education level, farm size, access to technology, and training as independent variables. The findings reveal that training and education have a significant influence on the adoption of e-auctions, followed by technological access and farm size. E-auctions have enhanced price transparency, market efficiency, and accessibility, although issues such as a lack of trust, limited technology access, and fear of exploitation persist. The study concludes that targeted interventions such as farmer training and infrastructure support can substantially strengthen the benefits of e-auction and ensure inclusive digital participation in the spice trade.

Keywords

e-auction, adoption, cardamom, kerala, spice sector.

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To cite this article

Jiya Tom, & Geevarghese M. Thomas. (2025). Impact of E-Auction on Kerala’s Spice Sector: A Study on Cardamom Cultivators in Idukki District. John Foundation Journal of EduSpark, 7(3), 54-64.