Background: This study identifies and models key barriers to reverse logistics (RL) implementation in circular agri-food supply chains (AFSCs) in the Indian context and examines their interrelationships. 
 
Methods: Fourteen barriers were identified through an extensive literature review and expert consultation. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was employed to develop a hierarchical structure and cross impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis was used to classify barriers based on driving and dependence power. 
 
Result: The findings indicate that lack of RL infrastructure (B2), high cost and low return on investment (B5) and inadequate cold chain facilities (B6) are the most influential barriers, forming the foundational layer of the system. The results highlight the need to prioritize infrastructure and financial interventions, supported by enabling policy measures&nbsp;for effective circular transition. The study provides a system-level understanding of barrier interrelationships and contributes to circular AFSCs literature in the Indian context. 
&nbsp;

Reverse Logistics Barriers in Circular Agri-food Supply Chains: An ISM-MICMAC Approach