Horticulture Production in India Sees Mixed Trends in 2023-24; Down by 32.51 Lakh Tonnes
05 June 2024, New Delhi: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released the Second Advance Estimates of 2023-24 of Area and Production of various Horticultural Crops compiled based on information received from States/ UTs and other Governmental source agencies.
Total Horticulture
2022-23
2023-24 (1st Adv. Est.)
2023-24 (2nd Adv. Est.)
Area (in Million Ha)
28.44
28.77
28.63
Production (in Million Tonne)
355.48
355.25
352.23
The horticulture sector in India has witnessed a mixed performance in the 2023-24 (Second Advance Estimates) as per the latest data. The overall horticulture production is estimated to be around 352.23 Million Tonnes, a decrease of about 32.51 Lakh Tonnes (0.91%) over the previous year’s final estimates.
Fruits, Honey, Flowers, Plantation Crops, Spices, and Aromatic & Medicinal Plants have seen an increase in production, while Vegetables have seen a decline.
Fruit Production Rises, but Some Declines Observed
The production of Fruits is expected to reach 112.63 Million Tonnes, mainly due to increases in Banana, Lime/Lemon, Mango, Guava, and Grapes. However, the production of Apple and Pomegranate is expected to decrease compared to 2022-23.
Vegetable Production Sees Mixed Trends
The production of Vegetables is envisaged to be around 204.96 Million Tonnes. Increases are expected in Bottlegourd, Bittergourd, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Pumpkin, Tapioca, Carrot, and Tomato. On the other hand, decreases are expected in Onion, Potato, Brinjal, and other Vegetables.
Onion and Potato Production Decline
The production of Onion is expected to be 242.12 Lakh Tonnes in 2023-24, a decrease of about 60 Lakh Tonnes compared to the previous year. Similarly, Potato production is expected to be around 567.62 Lakh Tonnes, a decrease of about 34 Lakh Tonnes, mainly due to decreases in Bihar and West Bengal.
Tomato Production Increases
In contrast, the production of Tomatoes is expected to be around 212.38 Lakh Tonnes in 2023-24, an increase of 3.98% compared to the previous year.
Overall, the horticulture sector in India has shown a mixed performance, with some crops experiencing increases in production while others face declines. The government and stakeholders will need to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities in this vital sector.
