Evaluating Growth Patterns in Indian Vegetable Farming: A Trend Analysis of Area, Production, and Productivity

Abstract

This paper attempts to explore the trends and variability of total and major vegetable crops cultivation with regard to area, production and productivity across the country. The secondary data pertaining to area, production and productivity of vegetable crops grown in India were collected from the Indiastat for the period from 2009-10 to 2023-24, divided into Period I (2009-10 to 2013-14), Period II (2014-15 to 2018-19) and Period III (2019-20 to 2023-24). Statistical tools like mean, percentage Absolute Growth Rate (AGR) and Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), were worked out to study total growth over a period and average annual growth rate respectively, whereas Cuddy Della Valle Instability Index was used to study variability. The study reveals a positive and consistent growth trajectory in terms of area under cultivation, production, and productivity. Period I saw the highest expansion, with absolute area growing by 17.67% (CAGR 3.31%), production increasing by 21.80% (CAGR 4.02%), while productivity remained stagnant. Onion and peas witnessed the highest growth in area and production, with low instability among the selected vegetables. Tapioca exhibited a declining trend in area and production, with moderate instability. In the context of climate change and the crucial role of leafy vegetables, root, and tuber crops in ensuring food and nutritional security, expansion of the area under vegetable cultivation and improvement in productivity would be a strategic step towards achieving ‘self-reliance’ and advancement of the ‘Make in India Mission’.