India: A Banana Powerhouse with Gujarat Leading the Pack

India reigns supreme as the world’s largest banana producer, contributing nearly 20% of global production. While Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra lead in overall production within India, Gujarat stands out for its exceptional productivity per hectare, exceeding both national and global averages. This high yield is attributed to the widespread adoption of tissue culture saplings and modern farming techniques, coupled with favorable soil and climate conditions. Bharuch district in Gujarat boasts the highest productivity, followed by Narmada, Chhota Udepur, Vadodara, and Anand, collectively accounting for over 80% of the state’s banana production. Despite ranking 18th globally in banana exports, India has witnessed a remarkable growth rate in recent years, with significant contributions from Gujarat’s Bharuch, Narmada, and Surat districts. The article highlights the potential for further growth in both traditional and new markets, particularly in developed countries like the USA and UK. With government support and initiatives like the APEDA clusters, Gujarat is poised to become a major player in the global banana export market.