Examining Select Issues in Indian Agriculture Supply Chain amidst COVID-19 Disruption: SAP-LAP Approach

Abstract

Purpose: The study aims at critically analysing the supply chain of Indian agriculture sector to understand the problems and solutions required amidst the disruption caused by the spread of Coronavirus pandemic. Strategic actions have been recommended for developing a resilient agriculture supply chain.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Firstly, through literature review the Indian agriculture supply chain landscape is first understood. Next, through SAP-LAP (Situation-Actor- Processes, Learning-Actions-Performance) approach, an attempt has been made to examine the present situation of Indian agriculture supply chain amidst the spread of the pandemic and effect of government decisions for farmers. Each of the aspects have been studied in the context of supply side, demand side and logistics side to obtain a comprehensive view.

Findings: The analysis of SAP-LAP factors for Indian agriculture sector supply chain points towards interesting findings. First and foremost, the SAP or Situation-Actor- Processes aspect points towards the lack of flexibility amongst actors for a resilient agriculture supply chain which got worsened by the lockdown measures. Next, the LAP or learning-actions-performance aspect suggests the ways in which flexibility can be built at the supply, demand and logistics end through various resilient practices such as collaboration, coordination, ICT, ground level inputs etc.

Originality/Value: The present study is an attempt towards understanding the consequences of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic on the supply chain of Indian agriculture sector. Through SAP-LAP framework a relatively transparent view of the Indian agriculture supply chain system is obtained for theoretical and managerial problem solving. The study, hence, adds to the pool of knowledge about agrarian supply chains along with risk and resilience measures to ensure continuity at the desired level of connectedness and control over structure and functions.

Paper Type: Case Based Study