An Economic Analysis of Growth and Instability of Vegetable Production in Eastern India

Background: The study examined the patterns of growth and volatility in vegetable production within India. The instability observed in vegetable production has led to significant disruptions in both supply and farm earnings. This escalating volatility in agricultural production, prices and farm income has raised apprehensions. The research assesses the expansion and instability in the cultivation of specific vegetables, Brinjal (Solanum melongena), Cabbage (Brassica oleracea), Onion (Allium cepa), Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) as well as the aggregate vegetable output from the period spanning 1994-95 to 2021-22 in India. Methods: The findings pertaining to growth (CAGR) patterns reveal a sense of inconsistency across regions, despite heightened production and increased cultivation areas dedicated to vegetables and witnessed significant increase in growth of vegetable production in India. Result: The analysis of instability highlights that the states of Odisha, Bihar and West Bengal exhibit relatively lower susceptibility to instability compared to Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, states with larger cultivation areas. The state-level analysis does not reflect the complete picture of problems in vegetable production and production problems under estimates affects to farm income. Need for addressing risks in farm income by devising area-specific crop insurance or other suitable mechanisms.