Integrating Sustainability and Innovation: A Comprehensive Review of Organic Farming Practices for Nutrient-Rich Fruit and Horticultural Crop Production in India

Abstract

Organic farming has gained prominence in India as a sustainable alternative to conventional horticultural production, addressing concerns related to soil degradation, declining fruit quality, environmental pollution, and food safety. This review critically synthesizes research evidence on organic farming practices for nutrient-rich fruit and horticultural crop production in India, with emphasis on soil health, nutrient management, pest and disease control, postharvest quality, and long-term sustainability. The paper examines key organic technologies, including composting, vermicomposting, green manuring, biofertilizers (such as Azospirillum, Rhizobium, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, and mycorrhizae), organic mulching, intercropping, and biological pest management using agents like Trichoderma and Bacillus spp. Findings from multiple field studies across diverse agro-climatic regions indicate that organic management significantly improves soil organic carbon, microbial activity, nutrient availability, and water retention, leading to enhanced fruit yield stability and superior quality attributes such as higher total soluble solids, vitamin C content, sugar–acid balance, and antioxidant levels in crops including mango, guava, pomegranate, citrus, and papaya. The review also highlights the role of organic postharvest practices such as natural coatings, biocontrol-based preservation, and eco-friendly packaging in reducing losses and maintaining nutritional quality. Despite clear ecological and quality-related benefits, challenges such as limited availability of organic inputs, initial yield gaps, pest pressure, certification complexity, and knowledge constraints continue to restrict large-scale adoption. The paper concludes that integrating traditional organic knowledge with modern innovations, policy support, and market linkages can strengthen organic horticulture as a resilient, climate-smart, and economically viable production system in India.