The state of Gujarat has once again secured its position as the undisputed leader in okra cultivation and production across India. The state government made this announcement on Monday, highlighting the pivotal role played by the Saurashtra–Kutch region in this agricultural achievement.
Saurashtra-Kutch: The Powerhouse of Okra Production
According to official data from the state horticulture department, Gujarat ranked first nationally for the 2023-24 period in both the total area under okra cultivation and the overall production volume. The crop was grown extensively across the state, covering approximately 93,955 hectares. This massive cultivation effort resulted in a remarkable yield of 11.68 lakh tonnes of okra.
The Saurashtra–Kutch region emerged as a significant contributor to this success. This region alone accounted for roughly 15% of Gujarat's total okra cultivation area and nearly 13% of its total production. In the 2024-25 period, okra was cultivated on close to 14,000 hectares spread across 12 districts within Saurashtra-Kutch, producing an estimated 1.5 lakh tonnes of the popular vegetable.
Broader Impact on Vegetable Production and Upcoming Showcase
The government's statement provided a broader perspective on the region's horticultural prowess. In 2024-25, Gujarat contributed a substantial 7.66% to India's total vegetable production. Focusing on Saurashtra-Kutch, the region produced a staggering 47.91 lakh metric tonnes of vegetables from crops cultivated over 2.32 lakh hectares.
This output translates to an impressive productivity rate of 20.60 metric tonnes per hectare. Officials attribute this high efficiency to a combination of improved farming practices, increased skill levels among local farmers, and a strengthened agricultural infrastructure network in the region.
Vibrant Gujarat to Spotlight Horticultural Progress
The significant progress made in horticulture, particularly in the Saurashtra-Kutch belt, will be a key highlight at the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC). This event is scheduled to take place in Rajkot next month, serving as a platform to showcase the region's agricultural innovations and successes to a wider audience.
The consistent top ranking in okra production underscores Gujarat's dominant role in India's agricultural sector. The focused development in regions like Saurashtra-Kutch, supported by enhanced practices and infrastructure, sets a benchmark for sustainable and productive horticulture in the country.
