In the latest assessment by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, India's horticulture production for the year 2023-24 is projected at approximately 352.23 million tonnes. This reflects a slight decrease of about 32.51 lakh tonnes (0.91 percent) compared to the final estimates of the previous year.
According to the released data, vegetable production is expected to experience a decline. Notably, onions, potatoes, brinjal (eggplant), and other vegetables are anticipated to witness reduced outputs, as indicated in the second advance estimate for 2023-24.
Of significant concern is the substantial drop in onion production, forecasted to decrease from 302.08 lakh tonnes last year to 242.12 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, marking a decrease of about 60 lakh tonnes.
However, amidst this decline, fruit production is set to reach 112.63 million tonnes, primarily driven by increases in banana, lime/lemon, mango, guava, and grape yields.
Vegetable production is estimated to be around 204.96 million tonnes, with notable increases expected in bottle gourd, bitter gourd, cabbage, cauliflower, and tomato output.
While apple and pomegranate production is anticipated to decrease compared to the previous year, there is a contrasting trend in tomato production. It is expected to increase by 3.98 percent, reaching approximately 212.38 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 compared to around 204.25 lakh tonnes last year.
The overall scenario highlights a mixed trend in horticulture production across different crops in the country. Notably, potato production is also expected to decline to around 567.62 lakh tonnes, primarily due to reduced outputs in Bihar and West Bengal.
This assessment shows the importance of monitoring and addressing the diverse challenges faced by the horticulture sector to ensure sustainable growth and food security in India.
