The Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare in India has recently published the final estimates for the 2022-23 period and the first advance estimates for 2023-24, detailing the area and production of various horticultural crops.  The data, compiled from information received from States, Union Territories, and other government sources, provides an insightful overview of the country's horticultural landscape. The total production of horticultural produce in India is projected to remain relatively stable at approximately 355.25 million tonnes.

However, the area under cultivation is expected to increase, rising to 28.77 million hectares compared to the previous year's 28.44 million hectares. For the 2023-24 period (initial estimates), the country's horticulture production is estimated to be about 355.25 million tonnes.

This projection reflects an increase in the cultivation area of 1.15 per cent or 3.27 lakh hectares compared to the 2022-23 period (final estimate). The production of fruits is anticipated to reach 112.08 million tonnes, primarily driven by an increase in the production of bananas, mandarins, and mangoes. This expected growth underscores the potential of these fruits to contribute to India's horticultural output and the agricultural sector's overall performance.