SDG 2: Zero Hunger | SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Institutions: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
India’s horticulture sector has recorded substantial expansion over the past decade, supported by the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and allied initiatives. Production increased from 280.7 million tonnes in 2013–14 to 367.7 million tonnes in 2024–25, with fruits rising nearly 30 percent (866 lakh tonnes to 1,129.7 lakh tonnes) and vegetables up by about 22 percent. Productivity per hectare has also improved, underscoring gains from systematic policy support.
Key interventions include cluster development, the Clean Plant Programme for quality planting material, expansion of nurseries and tissue culture units, and post-harvest infrastructure such as cold chains and pack houses. Mechanisation, organic farming promotion, and integrated pest management further underpin productivity. Specialized agencies - the National Horticulture Board, Coconut Development Board, Central Institute of Horticulture, and ICAR institutes provide technical capacity and institutional coordination.
The backgrounder emphasizes horticulture’s role in diversifying farm incomes, reducing volatility from cereal dependence, and creating rural employment. With demand for high-value crops rising domestically and globally, the sector is positioned as a driver of both nutritional security and export growth.
Relevant question for policy stakeholders: Which institutional lever -cluster-based value chains, clean planting material systems, or post-harvest infrastructure yields the greatest return on public investment in India’s horticulture sector?
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https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=155126&ModuleId=3