Export-oriented agriculture, a focus on technology, and collective efforts have helped Maharashtra emerge as a major contributor to the country’s grape production, and as a major export commodity.
According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, India shipped 3,43,982.34 tonnes of fresh grapes worth ₹3,460.70 crore ($417.07 million) globally in 2023-24.
Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Mizoram are the key grape-growing States in the country. Maharashtra leads in production, contributing over 67 per cent of total output and having the highest productivity in 2023-24.
Improving livelihoods
According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the total area under grape production was 1.75 lakh hectares in 2023-24. Karnataka was the second largest producer of grapes, with a share of 28 per cent in 2023-24.
Highlighting the efforts of Nashik farmers in India’s grape growth story, the Survey said grape cultivation has significantly improved the livelihoods of Nashik farmers where export-quality grapes fetch higher prices than domestic markets. This economic upliftment has attracted rural youth to grape farming.
“Farmers have adopted advanced technologies like real-time monitoring systems to ensure optimal grape quality. Nashik grape story shows how export-oriented agriculture, technology, and collective efforts can transform a region’s socio-economic conditions,” it said.
Mentioning that horticulture sector is emerging as a fast-growing industry in the country, the Survey said India’s horticulture sector is more productive and profitable than traditional agriculture.