Gujarat: Horticulture | Gujarat State PSC (GPSC) Preparation: All subjects - GPSC (Gujarat) PDF Download

Overview of Horticulture Sector in Gujarat

• Horticulture in Gujarat encompasses the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, ornamental flowers, and medicinal plants, along with their post-harvest management.
• Gujarat has a total geographical area of 19.6 million hectares, with approximately 9.7 million hectares dedicated to agriculture, accounting for about 49% of the state's total area.
• The command area in Gujarat covers about 3.8 million hectares, while the rain-fed area is approximately 6.6 million hectares.
• The average landholding in Gujarat stands at 2.03 hectares, higher than the national average of 1.16 hectares.
• Approximately 33% of the cultivated area in Gujarat is under irrigation, while the rest relies on rain-fed conditions.

Diversity of Horticulture in Gujarat

• Gujarat benefits from a diverse range of soil types, rainfall patterns, temperature conditions, and irrigation facilities.
• Major fruit crops cultivated in Gujarat include Banana, Mango, Citrus, Papaya, and Sapota, with a productivity rate of 21.18 MT per hectare in the year 2013-14.
• Key vegetables grown in the region comprise Onion, Garlic, Potato, Brinjal, Tomato, Okra, and Cucurbits, with an average productivity of 19.90 MT per hectare in 2013-14.

Impact of Horticulture on Socio-economic Development

• Horticulture is a prioritized sector in Gujarat's agriculture due to its significant potential to enhance the socio-economic conditions of farmers.
• The sector serves as a crucial supplier for numerous agro-based industries, offering substantial opportunities for skilled employment and self-employment in both rural and urban areas.

Key Horticultural Crops

• Seed Spices and Medicinal Plants:
  • Gujarat predominantly produces seed spices such as Cumin, Fennel, and Garlic, enjoying a monopoly in this sector.
  • The cultivation of medicinal plants like Aloe vera, Sena, and Gugal is distributed across the state.
• Floriculture:
  • The cultivation of flowers like Roses, Lilies, and Marigolds is gaining traction, indicating a shift towards high-value horticultural products.
  • Area under flower cultivation is steadily increasing, reflecting growing demand and profitability.
• Fruit Cultivation:
  • Gujarat's climate supports the growth of various fruits, including Alphonso mangoes in South Gujarat and Kesar mangoes in Junagadh.
  • Date palms in Kutch are a unique crop, contributing to the state's agricultural diversity.

Technological Advancements

• Greenhouse Cultivation:
  • The state has taken a lead in establishing greenhouses for cultivating high-value flowers and vegetables like Capsicum, Cucumber, and Tomato.
  • This modern agricultural practice enhances production efficiency and ensures quality output.
• Diversification and Innovation:
  • Gujarat has introduced new horticultural crops like Cashew Nuts, Pomelos, Sweet Oranges, and medicinal plants, expanding its agricultural portfolio.
  • Such diversification not only boosts farmers' income but also contributes to the overall horticultural growth of the state.

Impact on Agriculture and Economy

• Socio-Economic Benefits:
  • Horticulture has emerged as a sustainable and profitable venture for small and marginal farmers in Gujarat.
  • Increased production levels have led to improved food security and higher household incomes, positively impacting rural livelihoods.
• National Standing:
  • Gujarat's horticulture sector's rapid development has propelled the state to the fifth position in overall horticultural production in the country.
  • The substantial growth, particularly in fruit and flower production, signifies the state's growing agricultural prowess.

Overview of Horticulture Development Initiatives

• The central Government introduced the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture during the 12th Plan (2012-17) to consolidate various government efforts in the sector. This initiative included components such as the National Horticulture Mission, Horticulture Mission for North East & Himalayan States, National Bamboo Mission, Central Sector Scheme of National Horticulture Board, Coconut Development Board, and Central Institute for Horticulture to foster comprehensive growth in horticulture.
• New horticulture crops like Cashew Nut, Pamaroza, Sweet Orange, and medicinal crops are being emphasized for cultivation.
• Under the "Soil Health Card" scheme, farmers receive information on their soil's nutrient status and recommendations on the appropriate nutrient dosage for enhancing soil health and fertility.

Role of Government Authorities

• Agriculture & Co-operation Department, Government of Gujarat: The Agriculture & Co-operation Department of the Gujarat Government oversees various agricultural matters, including horticulture, soil conservation, dairy development, animal husbandry, and cooperative activities. It is responsible for formulating policies, implementing schemes, and monitoring these activities.
• Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation Limited: Established in 1969 under the Companies Act-1956, GAIC aims to foster agricultural activities and promote agro-based industries in Gujarat.
• National Horticulture Board: Founded in 1984 by the Government of India, NHB executes various schemes under the supervision of the Board of Directors and the Department of Agriculture & Co-operation, Ministry of Agriculture.
• Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): MIDH, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme initiated during the 12th five-year plan, focuses on the comprehensive development of horticulture in India. The scheme amalgamates ongoing initiatives like the National Horticulture Mission and others to promote holistic growth.

Floriculture and Spice Cultivation in Gujarat

Floriculture in Gujarat

• Floriculture is a burgeoning agricultural sector in Gujarat, witnessing significant growth over the years.
• In 2009-10, the cultivation area for flowers in Gujarat nearly doubled to 12,534 hectares from 6,956 hectares in 2004-05.
• The state actively promotes the cultivation of various flowers like rose, marigold, mogra, and lily.
• During 2009-10, the state produced a substantial 95,185 tonnes of flowers, indicating a thriving industry.
• Gujarat boasts 165 greenhouses dedicated to floriculture, offering stability against natural uncertainties that often affect flower cultivation.

Spice Cultivation in Gujarat

• The cultivation area for spices in Gujarat has seen a rise from 3.58 lakh hectares to 4.96 lakh hectares.
• Cumin holds a dominant position with 3.11 lakh hectares under its cultivation.