Protected Horticulture: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Introduction Global vegetable production has reached approximately 1.17 billion metric tons, marking a significant increase over the past decade. India ranks as the second-largest producer of vegetables after China, contributing around 212.9 million metric tons from 11.11 million hectares, with an average yield of 18.47 tons per hectare. Over the last two decades, India has emerged as a major player in the global horticulture sector often referred to as the horticultural (fruit and vegetable) basket of the world. The country has achieved a record high horticultural production of 355.48 million metric tons, showcasing its growing dominance and potential in this sector.