Labor dynamics in Punjab's regulated agricultural markets: An income perspective

Mandi laborers are integral to the agricultural marketing system, handling significant volumes of farm produce. Despite their essential role, their contributions are often overlooked in academic research. This study investigates the work and economic contributions of 90 laborers from nine regulated markets of varying sizes in Punjab. These laborers perform a range of activities, including unloading, cleaning, weighing, stitching, and loading bags of wheat, paddy, and cotton. On average, each laborer handles 45, 47, and 24 bags or bales of wheat, paddy, and cotton per day, respectively, with handling rates of Rs. 14.9 per bag for wheat, Rs. 15.9 per bag for paddy, and Rs. 11.56 per bale for cotton. During the kharif season, laborers work 45 days for paddy and 146 days for cotton, earning Rs. 33,119.70 and Rs. 40,020.72, respectively. In the rabi season, they work 31 days for wheat, resulting in a total income of Rs. 20,691.13. Market-wise analysis reveals that laborers in small markets earn less despite working more days compared to those in medium and large markets, primarily due to a slower auction process. This study highlights the economic condition of mandi laborers in agricultural markets and underscores the need to recognize and support this vital workforce.