Horticulture, the science of cultivating fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, spices, and medicinal plants, is at the heart of sustainable agriculture. With India's diverse climate and fertile soil, the country has emerged as a global leader in horticulture production, contributing significantly to the agricultural economy.
As one of the fastest-growing sectors in agriculture, horticulture offers immense potential for increasing farm productivity. Following the Green Revolution in the mid-sixties, it became evident that horticulture holds the key to accelerating agricultural growth. Today, horticultural production has surpassed traditional field crops, placing India on the global map as a top exporter of fruits and vegetables. With exports totaling approximately INR 38.56 billion—INR 26.35 billion in fruits and INR 12.21 billion in vegetables—India's horticulture sector is booming.
India ranks as the world's largest producer of okra and stands second in the production of potatoes, onions, cauliflowers, brinjal, and cabbages. Furthermore, India is the largest producer and consumer of cashew nuts and is among the top three producers of coconuts, leading a group of over 90 coconut-producing nations worldwide.
The Modern Shift: From Rural Roots to Commercial Growth
In the last decade, horticulture has transitioned from being a rural-based activity to a commercial enterprise. This shift has attracted private-sector investments and led to advancements in production systems. Cutting-edge technologies like micro-irrigation, precision farming, greenhouse cultivation, and post-harvest management have transformed horticultural practices, leading to higher efficiency and productivity.
Both national and international organizations have been instrumental in promoting these innovations, offering solutions to the challenges faced by farmers. Their contributions, coupled with technological advancements, are shaping the future of the industry.
SGT University: Empowering the Next Generation of Horticulturists
At SGT University, we understand the critical role that horticulture plays in the future of agriculture. Our mission is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to tackle real-world challenges in the sector. Recently, our students attended the International Conference on Horticulture & Horti Expo 2018, organized by the Indian Council of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) at the IARI Mela Ground in New Delhi. This event provided students with invaluable exposure to the latest developments in horticulture, helping them hone their problem-solving abilities and stay ahead in this dynamic field.
The future of agriculture is bright, with endless opportunities awaiting budding horticulturists. SGT University is proud to prepare its students to lead this revolution in sustainable, high-tech farming.