India’s production of horticulture crops is estimated to have increased by 3.66% to 367.72 million tonne (MT) in 2024-25 crop year (July-June), according to the second advance estimates released by the Union agriculture ministry on Wednesday.
The output had fallen to 354.74 MT in 2023-24 crop year from 355.54 MT in previous year mainly due to 20% drop in onion production compared to previous year.
The horticultural crops production continues to be higher than the food grain production in absolute terms, though the growth rates in last two years were higher for the latter.
Output of rice, wheat, pulses and coarse cereals in 2024-25 crop year was estimated at a record 353. 2 MT, an increase of 6% compared to previous crop year.
Area under horticulture crops rose to 29.2 million hectare (Mha) in 2024-25 against 29.08 Mha last year. In 2024-25 crop year, while output of fruits including mngo and banana, rose by 1.36% to 114.5 MT, the production of vegetables including onion, potato and tomato rose by 6% to 219.6 MT. Potato and onion production in 2024-25 rose by 26% and 5.46% to 60.17 MT and 57.05 MT respectively.
According to an official note, the horticulture sector contributes about 33% to the agriculture gross value added (GVA), making a significant contribution to the economy.