Growth and Variability Analysis of Major Fruits and Vegetables Cultivation in Assam

Abstract

Assam has a predominantly agrarian economy and most of the people in the state are dependent on agriculture. This dependence is attributable to the diverse geographical and climatic conditions that support a wide range of crops in the state. Tea, rice, wheat, maize, and oilseed are some major crops dominating the agricultural landscape of the state. In addition to these staple crops, horticultural crops such as banana, potato, tapioca, onion, sweet potato, orange, papaya, and pineapple are widely cultivated in various districts of Assam. This study analyses trends in the area and production of major fruits and vegetables in Assam from 2004–05 to 2022–23 using CAGR and Coefficient of Variation (CV). The study highlights growth disparities among eight major horticultural crops including banana, potato, tapioca, onion, sweet potato, orange, papaya, and pineapple. Production has increased for crops like banana, potato, onion, pineapple, orange, papaya and tapioca, though growth remains uneven across crops. Onion recorded the highest production CAGR (9.82%), indicating rapid expansion, whereas sweet potato exhibited negative growth, reflecting declining cultivation. Variability analysis shows that onion production was highly unstable (CV=69.90%), while sweet potato remained the most stable (CV = 10.82%). In terms of area, orange showed the highest fluctuation (CV = 26.10%), whereas banana exhibited the most stability (CV=6.97%). These results indicate that horticultural growth in Assam is characterized by both expansion and instability, requiring crop-specific interventions. This research highlights the need for better infrastructure, climate-resilient farming, post-harvest management and stronger market linkages.

SAARC J. Agric., 24(1): 31-41 (2026)