Correct Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Agricultural marketing does require effective communication and transportation infrastructure, and the reason for this is that timely and efficient transportation ensures that agricultural produce reaches the market without spoilage.

Effective communication is essential for agricultural marketing to facilitate the exchange of information between farmers, traders, and consumers. It helps farmers stay informed about market demand, prices, and consumer preferences, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding production and marketing strategies.

Transportation infrastructure, including roads, railways, and storage facilities, is crucial for the timely and efficient movement of agricultural produce from farms to markets. Proper transportation infrastructure helps reduce transportation time, minimize handling and storage losses, and ensure that perishable agricultural products reach the market in optimal condition.

Spoilage and quality deterioration can occur if agricultural produce is not transported promptly or if transportation facilities are inadequate. Timely and efficient transportation helps minimize post-harvest losses, maintain product quality, and ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce.

Therefore, the assertion that agricultural marketing requires effective communication and transportation infrastructure is true, and the reason that timely and efficient transportation ensures that agricultural produce reaches the market without spoilage is the correct explanation for this assertion.