Paper Title
A STUDY ON INTEGRATED STUDY OF AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY CHAIN AND LOGISTICS CHALLENGES, ICT IMPLEMENTATION, AND REGULATORY POLICIES SUPPORT” WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO TELANGANA STATE.Abstract
Agricultural supply chains (ASCs) in emerging economies like India play a pivotal role in ensuring food security, rural development, and economic growth. Telangana, as a predominantly agrarian state, is confronted with structural inefficiencies across its agricultural supply chain and logistics (ASCL) networks. This study investigates the multidimensional challenges impacting the ASCL sector in Telangana, including infrastructural deficits, logistical bottlenecks, limited adoption of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), and regulatory shortcomings. Despite numerous government interventions and schemes designed to modernize agricultural value chains, stakeholders continue to face hurdles in accessing timely logistics support, financial resources, and institutional guidance. Using a mixed-method approach, the study evaluates the effectiveness of policy frameworks, financial support systems from banks and institutions, and public-private initiatives aimed at improving supply chain performance. Particular attention is given to the implementation of ICT solutions, regulatory responsiveness, and environmental risks that threaten the long-term sustainability of agricultural logistics in the state. Statistical tools including regression analysis, t-tests, factor analysis, and chi-square tests are employed to examine correlations between policy effectiveness, infrastructural quality, supply chain competencies, and overall ASCL performance. Findings reveal a significant gap between policy intent and field-level implementation, exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure, fragmented supply chain planning, and limited digital penetration in rural logistics operations. Moreover, challenges related to environmental volatility, poor labor conditions, and lack of coordinated governance further reduce resilience and operational efficiency. The study underscores the urgent need for a strategic overhaul that combines infrastructure modernization, digital innovation, institutional accountability, and stakeholder capacity building.
This study contributes valuable insights to policymakers, agricultural cooperatives, financial institutions, and logistics planners by highlighting key areas for systemic reform. The findings advocate for integrated, technology-enabled, and policy-aligned solutions that can transform Telangana’s agricultural supply chain into a resilient, transparent, and sustainable ecosystem, aligning with the state’s long-term socio-economic and food security goals.
KEYWORDS : Agricultural Supply Chain (ASC), Logistics Management, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Public–Private Partnerships (PPP).