Growth Trends and Economic Interlinkages of the Indian Horticulture Sector: A Comprehensive Analysis

This study examined the growth trends and economic interlinkages of horticulture in India from 2001-02 to 2022-23. Over the study period, the horticulture sector in India exhibited remarkable expansion, with the area under cultivation increasing from 16.59 to 28.44 million hectares, production rising from 145.79 to 355.43 million tonnes, and productivity improving from 8.79 to 12.50 tonnes per hectare. A notable shift occurred in production dynamics, with horticulture surpassing food grain production since 2010, attaining 355.43 million tonnes in 2022-23, against 330.5 million tonnes of food grains. The economic significance of horticulture was underscored by its contribution to overall agricultural output, which grew at a CAGR of 4.14 per cent, outpacing cereals, pulses, and oilseeds. Furthermore, household expenditure on horticultural products, including fruits and vegetables, showed robust growth, with CAGRs of 4.02 and 4.09 per cent, respectively, highlighting increased consumer demand and dietary shifts. Econometric analyses revealed a long-run relationship between horticulture production, food grain production, and India's Gross Value Added (GVA), indicating mutual dependencies across these sectors. Overall, the study underscored the pivotal role of horticulture in India's agricultural growth trajectory, emphasizing the need for continued policy support to sustain and enhance its contribution to the Indian economy.