India’s horticulture sector is poised for another strong year, with total production projected to reach 3,777.76 lakh tonnes during 2025-26, according to the Second Advance Estimates released by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. The latest estimates indicate a significant increase of 70.39 lakh tonnes, or 1.90 percent, over the final production figures recorded in 2024-25.
The area under horticultural crops is also expected to witness a marginal increase. The total horticulture area is estimated at 301.51 lakh hectares in 2025-26, compared to 301.36 lakh hectares in the previous year. This growth reflects the continued importance of horticulture in strengthening agricultural diversification, enhancing farmer incomes, and ensuring nutritional security.
Among the major horticultural categories, fruit production is expected to register a notable rise. Total fruit output is projected to increase by 3.25 percent, reaching 1,214.75 lakh tonnes from 1,176.49 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. The increase has been attributed largely to higher production of key fruits such as banana, mango, papaya, apple, and guava. Favorable weather conditions, improved cultivation practices, and increased adoption of quality planting material have contributed to this positive trend.
Vegetable cultivation is also expected to expand during the year. The area under vegetables is projected to rise from 117.91 lakh hectares to 118.79 lakh hectares. Correspondingly, vegetable production is estimated to increase by 32.04 lakh tonnes, reaching 2,210 lakh tonnes in 2025-26. Major contributors to the growth include potato, tomato, okra (ladyfinger), peas, cauliflower, and bottle gourd, all of which are expected to record higher output.
Potato production is projected at 598.89 lakh tonnes, representing an increase of 13.18 lakh tonnes over the previous year. Tomato production is also expected to rise significantly, reaching 214.61 lakh tonnes, an increase of 4.19 percent compared to 2024-25. These gains are likely to support domestic supply and help maintain market stability.
Onion cultivation has shown encouraging growth in terms of acreage. The area under onion is estimated to increase by 2.31 percent to 20.14 lakh hectares. However, production is expected to remain almost unchanged at 307.37 lakh tonnes, slightly lower than the 307.67 lakh tonnes recorded in the previous year. This suggests that productivity levels may have been affected by regional variations in weather and crop conditions.
The estimates also point to steady growth in other horticultural segments. Production of aromatic and medicinal plants is expected to rise from 9.01 lakh tonnes to 9.76 lakh tonnes, reflecting growing demand from pharmaceutical, wellness, and essential oil industries.
The floriculture sector is projected to perform strongly as well. The area under flower cultivation is expected to increase to 4 lakh hectares, while flower production is estimated to grow by 7.47 percent, reaching 45.84 lakh tonnes. Rising domestic demand and expanding export opportunities are contributing to the sector’s growth.
Plantation crops are expected to occupy around 46.56 lakh hectares, with production estimated at 169.34 lakh tonnes. Meanwhile, the spices sector is set for further expansion. The area under spices is projected to touch 50 lakh hectares, while production is expected to reach 126.55 lakh tonnes. Higher output is anticipated in crops such as garlic, turmeric, curry leaf, and fenugreek.
The Second Advance Estimates highlight the resilience and growth potential of India’s horticulture sector. With increasing production across fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, and medicinal plants, the sector continues to play a crucial role in supporting agricultural growth, generating employment, and meeting the country’s evolving food and nutritional requirements.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
