The Agriculture Ministry’s second advance estimates for 2023-24 show a rise in fruit production but a decline in vegetable output. These estimates are based on information from states, union territories, and other governmental sources. Erratic weather conditions have notably impacted certain vegetable crops like onions and potatoes.
Key Highlights
Overall Production: The total horticulture production in India for 2023-24 is estimated to be about 352.23 million tonnes. This marks a slight decrease of 0.91% (32.51 lakh tonnes) compared to the final estimates for 2022-23.
Fruit Production: The production of fruits is expected to reach 112.63 million tonnes. This increase is mainly due to higher yields of bananas, limes/lemons, mangoes, guavas, and grapes. However, apple and pomegranate production are expected to decline compared to last year.
Vegetable Production: The production of vegetables is projected to be around 204.96 million tonnes. While there will be increases in the production of bottle gourd, bitter gourd, cabbage, cauliflower, pumpkin, tapioca, carrot, and tomato, there will be declines in the output of onions, potatoes, brinjals, and other vegetables.
Specific Crops
Onion: Onion production is expected to fall to 242.12 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 from 302.08 lakh tonnes last year, a decrease of about 60 lakh tonnes.
Potato: Potato production is projected to be around 567.62 lakh tonnes, down by about 34 lakh tonnes, with significant decreases reported in Bihar and West Bengal.
Tomato: Tomato production is expected to rise to 212.38 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, up from around 204.25 lakh tonnes last year, an increase of 3.98%.
Other Crops: The production of honey, flowers, plantation crops, spices, aromatics, and medicinal plants is estimated to increase.
Agriculture Ministry’s report highlights the mixed outcomes in horticulture for 2023-24, with a notable rise in fruit production and a significant decline in vegetable output. These changes reflect the ongoing challenges and adjustments within India’s agricultural sector.
