Challenge Faced by Horticulturists in Orange Cultivation with Special Reference to Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

The study was conducted in Madhya Pradesh to examine the factors limiting citrus production and challenges faced by orange growers in the Agar Malwa and Pandhurna districts. A total of 183 respondents were selected using a proportional stratified sampling approach. The findings revealed several critical challenges affecting citrus farmers, with pest and disease outbreaks being the most significant constraint, impacting yield and fruit quality (mean score 4.26). Second major challenge was inadequate subsidies (mean score 4.19), followed by climate change effects, including temperature fluctuations, frosts, and irregular rainfall (mean scores 3.96 and 3.89, respectively). Other concerns included the high cost and unavailability of disease-free rootstock, a shortage of trained labor, market fluctuations, and post-harvest losses. These issues highlight the need for targeted policy, extension and research interventions to enhance pest and disease management, improve access to disease-free rootstock. Additionally, there is a need for market stabilization mechanisms and strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on citrus farming.