Farmers’ Income Rises with Record Horticulture Production
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government is making significant strides in enhancing farmers’ income and promoting horticulture. Following the guidance of Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released the final horticultural estimates for 2024-25 and the first advance estimates for 2025-26, showcasing substantial increases in the area and output of fruits, vegetables, spices, flowers, and medicinal plants across the country.
Record Growth in Horticulture Sector
Recent data reveals that the total area cultivated for horticulture crops expanded from 290.86 lakh hectares in 2023-24 to 301.36 lakh hectares in 2024-25, an increase of 10.50 lakh hectares or 3.61%. Similarly, total production rose from 3547.44 lakh tonnes to 3707.38 lakh tonnes, marking a rise of 159.94 lakh tonnes or 4.51%. The first advance estimates for 2025-26 predict a slight increase in production to 3708.46 lakh tonnes, indicating a clear trend of progress in this vital sector.
Fruits and Vegetables Boosting Nutrition and Income
According to Minister Chouhan, the production of fruits surged by 4.13%, reaching 1176.49 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, attributed to higher yields of bananas, mangoes, mandarins, papayas, guavas, watermelons, and jackfruits. Vegetable production is also on the rise, estimated to increase by 5.11% to 2177.97 lakh tonnes, driven by gains in various crops including onions, potatoes, and green chilies. Projections for 2025-26 suggest a steady increase in fruit and vegetable outputs, further supporting both farmer incomes and nutritional needs.
Key Staples Strengthen Daily Food Supply
Onion cultivation has seen remarkable growth, with area expanding from 15.41 lakh hectares in 2023-24 to 19.68 lakh hectares in 2024-25, a 27.74% rise. Production is expected to hit 307.67 lakh tonnes, marking a 26.79% increase. Similarly, potato production is estimated at 585.71 lakh tonnes, while tomato output is predicted to grow to 227.02 lakh tonnes in 2025-26, enhancing farmer earnings and contributing to daily food supplies.
Growth in High-Value Crops
The area dedicated to aromatic and medicinal plants has grown by 6.13%, with total production reaching 9.01 lakh tonnes. Flower cultivation saw a significant boost, with a 25.24% increase in area and a production rise to 42.65 lakh tonnes. Meanwhile, spice production surged to 129.93 lakh tonnes, highlighting notable growth in high-demand crops like cumin and turmeric.
Future Focus on Technology and Sustainable Practices
Minister Chouhan indicated that plantation crop production, while slightly lower this year, is set to increase in the coming cycle, emphasizing the continuous growth in area and production. The government’s investments in advanced technologies, improved irrigation practices, and robust value chains are expected to yield positive results for farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture and long-term profitability.
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