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Second Advance Estimates of 2023-24 of Area and Production of Horticultural Crops released | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Second Advance Estimates of 2023-24 of Area and Production of Horticultural Crops released

Posted 06 Jun 2024

Updated 07 Jun 2024

2 min read

Key highlights of estimates released by Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

  • Horticultural production in 2023-24 has decreased to 352.23 million tonnes (by 0.91% as compared to 2022-23). 
  • Increase in production of Fruits, Honey, Flowers, Plantation Crops, Spices and Aromatics & Medicinal Plants whereas decrease in Vegetables.

About Horticulture Sector

  • Horticulture is the art of production, utilisation and improvement of fruits and vegetables, spices and condiments, ornamental, plantation, medicinal and aromatic plants. 
  • It contributes about 33% to agriculture Gross Value Added to Indian economy.
  • India is the second largest producer of vegetables and fruits in world after China.

Importance of Horticulture crops

  • Horticulture crops are high-value crops, have high productivity and require less irrigation, thus increasing profitability of farmers. 
  • Rich source of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, dietary fibres, etc.
  • Good source of foreign exchange due to higher demand in international market.
  • Horticultural produce serves as raw material for various industries like food processing, pharmaceutical etc.

Associated Challenges 

  • Outdated harvesting practices and inadequate cold chain infrastructure, resulting in 4.6-15.9% wastage annually.
  • Lack of high-quality seedlings and rootstock. 
  • Climate change and persistent pests lead to infestations and plant diseases, diminishing crop yield and quality.

Initiatives taken to promote Horticulture Sector

  • Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, for holistic growth of horticulture sector covering fruits, vegetables, root & tuber crops, mushrooms, etc.
  • Horticulture Cluster Development Programme to leverage geographical specialisation and promote integrated and market-led development of horticulture clusters.
  • Tags :
  • Horticulture Cluster Development Programme
  • Horticulture Sector
  • Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture
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