INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IV, April 2025
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Horticulture's Role in Transforming the Lives of Agriculturists in
Mulshi Taluka of Pune District
Rati Sulegaon
B.A.M.U., Aurangabad
DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.140400050
Received: 01 April 2025; Accepted: 10 April 2025; Published: 10 May 2025
Abstract: Horticulture has emerged as a transformative force in the agricultural landscape of Mulshi Taluka, Pune District,
significantly impacting the economic well-being of local farmers. This study aims to analyze the role of horticulture in enhancing
farmers' income, employment opportunities, and market accessibility while assessing its overall contribution to rural
development. Using statistical models and government reports, we evaluate the economic benefits derived from horticultural
activities compared to traditional farming. Our findings suggest that farmers engaged in horticulture experience higher income
growth, improved employment generation, and greater resilience to climatic fluctuations. Additionally, initiatives such as farmer
cooperatives and fruit export clusters have contributed to the increased profitability and sustainability of horticulture-based
agriculture in the region. The study also highlights the need for continued policy support, infrastructure development, and
innovative agricultural techniques to maximize the sector’s potential. By leveraging statistical equations to quantify the economic
benefits, this research provides a data-driven perspective on the effectiveness of horticulture as a catalyst for agricultural
transformation.
Keywords -Horticulture, Agriculture Transformation, Farmers’ Income, Employment Generation, Economic Development, Pune
District, Mulshi Taluka, Rural Livelihoods, Statistical Analysis, Export Potential
I. Introduction
Agriculture has long been the backbone of India’s economy, providing livelihoods to nearly 60% of the population (Ministry of
Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, 2023). However, traditional farming practices, particularly those dependent on staple crops like
rice and wheat, have faced significant challenges due to erratic climatic conditions, declining soil fertility, and fluctuating market
prices (Patil & Deshmukh, 2022). As a result, there has been a gradual shift towards diversified farming practices, with
horticulture emerging as a key driver of economic sustainability and agricultural resilience.
Mulshi Taluka, located in Pune District, Maharashtra, is known for its fertile land and favorable agro-climatic conditions, making
it an ideal region for horticultural development. The Maharashtra government has actively promoted horticulture as a means to
enhance farm productivity, increase farmers' income, and improve employment opportunities (Maharashtra Horticulture
Development Report, 2023). With the implementation of schemes such as the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) and the
Maharashtra State Horticulture Development Program, farmers in Mulshi have gained access to financial support, modern
irrigation techniques, and high-yield crop varieties (Government of Maharashtra, 2023).
Horticulture, which includes the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants, flowers, and spices, has proven to be more
profitable than traditional cereal-based farming. According to the National Horticulture Board (2023), horticultural crops not only
provide higher returns per hectare but also generate more employment opportunities due to their labor-intensive nature. For
instance, the cultivation of fruit crops such as pomegranates, bananas, and grapes in Pune District has significantly contributed to
the region's economy, with some crops even being exported to international markets (Agricultural and Processed Food Products
Export Development Authority [APEDA], 2023).
Several studies have emphasized the positive impact of horticulture on farmers’ economic well-being. A study by Sharma et al.
(2022) found that horticulture-based farming increased farmers' annual income by up to 40% compared to traditional grain
cultivation. Moreover, horticulture has played a crucial role in women’s empowerment, as many women have taken up
floriculture and vegetable farming as independent income-generating activities (Deshpande & Kulkarni, 2021).
Despite its advantages, horticulture in Mulshi Taluka faces certain challenges, including inadequate cold storage facilities, market
fluctuations, and dependency on seasonal demand. However, the formation of farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and
cooperative groups such as the Abhinav Farmers Club has facilitated direct market access, reducing middlemen's exploitation and
ensuring better pricing for produce (Singh, 2023). The establishment of fruit clusters by the District Agriculture Office has further
boosted the potential for export, strengthening the economic viability of horticulture in the region (Times of India, 2025).
Given the rapid transformation in agricultural practices, this study aims to analyze the economic and social impact of horticulture
on farmers in Mulshi Taluka. By utilizing statistical models and government data, we assess the extent to which horticulture has
improved income levels, employment rates, and overall quality of life for local farmers. This research also identifies policy
interventions and infrastructural improvements needed to maximize the benefits of horticultural practices.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IV, April 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 484
II. Methodology
This study adopts a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analyses to assess the impact of
horticulture on the lives of agriculturists in Mulshi Taluka, Pune District. The methodology consists of data collection, statistical
modeling, and comparative analysis to derive meaningful conclusions.
Data Collection
Primary Data
To obtain firsthand insights, structured surveys and interviews were conducted with farmers engaged in horticulture across
different villages in Mulshi Taluka. The survey questionnaire focused on:
Annual income before and after switching to horticulture
Employment opportunities created (self and hired labor)
Types of horticultural crops cultivated
Market access and challenges faced
Adoption of government schemes and technological advancements
Additionally, focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with farmer cooperatives such as the Abhinav Farmers Club to
understand collective farming benefits. Field visits were also conducted to observe farming practices, irrigation methods, and
post-harvest processing techniques.
Secondary Data
Secondary data were collected from various government reports, research publications, and statistical databases, including:
National Horticulture Mission (NHM) Reports (2023)
Maharashtra Agriculture Department Reports (2023-2024)
District Agriculture Office, Pune Statistics (2024)
National Horticulture Board Annual Report (2023)
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) data
These sources provided statistical insights into horticulture production trends, economic benefits, and employment generation in
the region.
Statistical Model and Analysis
To quantify the economic impact of horticulture, we employed the following statistical models:
Income Growth Analysis
To measure the change in farmers’ income before and after adopting horticulture, we used the Income Growth Rate (IGR)
formula:
where:
I
horticulture
= Average annual income of horticulture farmers
I
traditional
= Average annual income of traditional farmers
This calculation helps determine the percentage increase in income for farmers who transitioned to horticulture.
Employment Elasticity Analysis
To evaluate employment generation in horticulture versus traditional farming, we used employment elasticity:
This formula helps assess how employment changes with an increase in horticulture production.
Profitability Index
To compare profitability between different crops, we calculated the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR):
A BCR value greater than 1 indicates profitability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
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III. Comparative Analysis
To validate the findings, we compared Mulshi Taluka’s horticulture performance with:
Neighboring agricultural regions in Pune District
Government-set benchmarks for productivity and income growth
National averages for horticulture profitability
Graphical representation (bar charts and trend analysis) was used to depict income growth, employment changes, and export
trends.
Validation and Reliability Measures -
To ensure accuracy and reliability:
Triangulation was used by cross-verifying findings from surveys, government reports, and case studies.
Statistical tests such as ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) were conducted to determine whether income variations
between traditional and horticultural farmers were statistically significant.
Pilot testing of surveys was conducted before full-scale data collection to refine questions and ensure clarity.
Limitations of the Study -
Data availability constraints: Some horticulture-specific income details were unavailable due to privacy concerns.
Market fluctuations: Prices of horticultural produce vary based on seasonality, which might impact profitability
calculations.
Sample size: The study focuses on Mulshi Taluka, so findings may not be fully generalizable to other regions with
different agro-climatic conditions.
IV. Results and Discussion
Results
This section presents the results of the study based on statistical calculations, field data, and comparative analysis. The findings
focus on income growth, employment generation, and the overall economic impact of horticulture in Mulshi Taluka.
Income Growth Analysis -
Using the Income Growth Rate (IGR) equation:
The income levels of 50 surveyed farmers (before and after transitioning to horticulture) were analyzed.
Farmer Category
Average Annual Income
from Traditional Farming
(₹/Year)
Average Annual Income from
Horticulture (₹/Year)
Income Growth Rate (IGR, %)
Small-scale farmers
(1-2 acres)
80, 000
1, 50, 000
87.5%
Medium-scale farmers
(3-5 acres)
1,50,000
3,00,000
100%
1, 50, 000
3, 00, 000
100%
Large-scale farmers
(>5 acres)
3,00,000
6,50,000
116.67%
3, 00, 000
6, 50, 000
116.67%
The average income of horticulture farmers is nearly twice that of traditional farmers.
Large-scale farmers experience the highest income growth due to economies of scale and direct market linkages.
Small-scale farmers also benefit significantly, indicating that even limited land can generate higher revenue through
horticulture.
The high profitability of crops like grapes, pomegranates, and bananas has played a key role in this income surge.
Employment Elasticity Analysis
Using the Employment Elasticity (EE) equation:
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Employment generation was analyzed in terms of labor demand per hectare.
Crop Type
Labor Requirement (Traditional
Crops) (Man-days/ha)
Labor Requirement
(Horticulture) (Man-days/ha)
Employment
Elasticity (EE)
Cereals (Rice/Wheat)
143
N/A
-
Vegetables (Tomatoes,
Onions)
300
750
1.5
Fruit Crops (Grapes,
Pomegranates)
500
1,200
1.8
Floriculture
600
1,500
2.1
Horticulture crops require significantly more labor, increasing employment opportunities.
Employment elasticity is highest in floriculture (2.1), meaning a 1% increase in floriculture output results in a
2.1% increase in employment.
The shift to horticulture has reduced seasonal unemployment by providing year-round jobs.
Women’s participation has increased, particularly in floriculture and vegetable farming.
Profitability Index (Benefit-Cost Ratio - BCR) -
Using the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) formula:
Crop Type
Total Cost of Cultivation (₹/ha)
Net Returns (₹/ha)
Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR)
Rice
40,000
20,000
0.5
Wheat
35,000
18,000
0.51
Grapes
1,50,000
3,50,000
2.33
Pomegranates
1,20,000
2,80,000
2.33
Floriculture
2,00,000
5,00,000
2.5
Horticulture is significantly more profitable than traditional farming.
Floriculture has the highest BCR (2.5), making it one of the most lucrative options.
Rice and wheat have a BCR below 1, indicating that traditional farming barely covers costs.
High-value crops like grapes and pomegranates provide better income stability through exports.
Comparative Analysis: Horticulture vs. Traditional Agriculture –
Aspect
Traditional Farming
Horticulture
Average Income (₹/ha)
20,000 - 80,000
1,50,000 - 5,00,000
Employment (Man-days/ha)
143 - 500
750 - 1,500
Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR)
0.5 - 0.51
2.3 - 2.5
Market Accessibility
Low (via middlemen)
High (direct & export)
Seasonal Dependency
High
Low (year-round production)
Key Takeaways -
Horticulture is more financially rewarding and provides better job security.
Market access is better, reducing the dependency on middlemen.
Horticulture is more resilient to climate change due to controlled farming techniques.
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Export Potential and Market Linkages -
The District Agriculture Office of Pune has been promoting tehsil-wise fruit clusters to boost exports.
Crop Type
Current Export Volume (Tons/Year)
Projected Export Growth (2025)
Grapes
25,000
40,000
Pomegranates
18,000
30,000
Custard Apples
12,000
22,000
Floriculture (Cut Flowers)
5,000
10,000
Discussion on Market Expansion -
Horticulture has a strong export market, particularly for grapes and pomegranates.
Government initiatives aim to increase fruit clusters to enhance export potential.
Direct market linkages through farmer cooperatives have improved profitability.
Challenges in Horticulture Development -
Despite its benefits, horticulture in Mulshi Taluka faces key challenges:
Lack of Cold Storage Facilities – Leads to post-harvest losses.
Market Price Volatility – Seasonal fluctuations affect profitability.
Initial High Investment – Costs for greenhouses and irrigation can be high.
Climate Sensitivity – Although controlled, extreme weather can still impact yields.
Policy Recommendations
To overcome these challenges and maximize horticulture’s potential, the following policies are recommended:
Expansion of Cold Storage Facilities – To reduce post-harvest losses.
Subsidized Drip Irrigation – To optimize water use and reduce costs.
Price Stabilization Fund – To protect farmers from market fluctuations.
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) – Strengthen collective bargaining power.
Export Promotion Schemes – Incentivize global market access.
V. Conclusion
The study provides strong empirical evidence that horticulture has significantly transformed the lives of agriculturists in
Mulshi Taluka by enhancing income, employment opportunities, and overall economic stability. The statistical analysis based on
government data and field surveys highlights the superiority of horticulture over traditional farming in terms of profitability,
job creation, and market accessibility.
1. Economic Growth and Income Enhancement -
The Income Growth Rate (IGR) analysis demonstrates that farmers who transitioned to horticulture experienced an income
increase of 87.5% to 116.67%, depending on farm size. Compared to traditional crops like rice and wheat, horticultural crops—
such as grapes, pomegranates, and floriculture—generate twice to five times higher income per hectare.
Small-scale farmers (1-2 acres) saw an income growth of 87.5%, proving that even with limited land, horticulture can
be highly profitable.
Medium and large-scale farmers experienced income increases above 100%, benefitting from economies of scale,
export potential, and better market linkages.
The Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) for horticulture (2.3-2.5) is significantly higher than that of traditional crops (0.5-0.51),
confirming that horticulture yields higher net profits despite initial investments.
Thus, horticulture is not only a more lucrative option for farmers but also a sustainable strategy for long-term rural
development.
2. Employment Generation and Rural Development -
The Employment Elasticity (EE) analysis reveals that horticulture is significantly more labor-intensive than traditional farming,
resulting in increased employment opportunities, particularly for women and landless laborers.
The labor demand for fruit crops (1,200 man-days/ha) and floriculture (1,500 man-days/ha) is 2 to 3 times higher
than that of rice and wheat.
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Women’s participation has increased, especially in floriculture and vegetable farming, contributing to gender
empowerment.
Seasonal unemployment has reduced as horticulture provides year-round employment, unlike traditional crops that are
seasonal.
This shift towards labor-intensive horticultural activities has played a critical role in rural employment generation, reducing
migration to urban areas.
3. Market Expansion and Export Potential -
The study also finds that horticulture has strong export potential, contributing to both individual farmer prosperity and regional
economic growth.
Grape and pomegranate exports are expected to grow by 60% and 67%, respectively, by 2025 due to increasing
global demand and government-backed fruit clusters.
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and cooperative societies have facilitated direct market access, reducing
reliance on middlemen and ensuring better profit margins.
Technological advancements, including drip irrigation, greenhouse farming, and cold storage infrastructure, have
improved both productivity and post-harvest handling.
These findings indicate that Mulshi Taluka has the potential to emerge as a major horticultural hub if market linkages and
export infrastructure continue to improve.
4. Challenges and the Way Forward -
Despite the benefits, horticulture faces challenges such as market price volatility, inadequate cold storage facilities, and high
initial investments. Addressing these issues requires policy interventions such as:
1. Expansion of cold storage and processing units to minimize post-harvest losses.
2. Government-subsidized irrigation and technology adoption to reduce production costs.
3. Establishment of price stabilization mechanisms to protect farmers from market fluctuations.
4. Encouraging FPOs and contract farming to strengthen farmer bargaining power and ensure stable incomes.
References -
1. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. (2023). Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2023. Government of India.
2. Patil, R., & Deshmukh, A. (2022). Challenges in traditional agriculture and the shift towards horticulture. Indian Journal
of Agricultural Research, 56(4), 301-315.
3. Maharashtra Horticulture Development Report. (2023). Horticulture Growth and Development in Maharashtra.
Government of Maharashtra.
4. Government of Maharashtra. (2023). State Horticulture Development Program. Maharashtra Agriculture Department.
5. National Horticulture Board. (2023). Annual Report on Horticulture Growth in India.
6. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). (2023). Horticultural Exports from
Maharashtra: Trends and Challenges.
7. Sharma, P., Gupta, M., & Reddy, S. (2022). Economic benefits of horticulture over traditional farming. Journal of
Agricultural Economics, 78(2), 112-129.
8. Deshpande, S., & Kulkarni, R. (2021). Women’s empowerment through floriculture and vegetable farming. International
Journal of Rural Studies, 35(3), 215-227.
9. Singh, K. (2023). The role of Farmer Producer Organizations in improving horticultural trade. Indian Farming Journal,
45(1), 98-110.
10. Times of India. (2025). District agriculture office to set up fruit clusters to boost exports. Times of India.
