Key Highlights * India ranks second globally in tomato output, with 21.32 million tonnes projected for 2025‑26. * Madhya Pradesh leads domestic production, contributing 36.18 lakh tonnes, followed by Andhra Pradesh (27.03 lakh) and Karnataka (23.92 lakh). * Gujarat and Odisha round out the top five, together accounting for roughly 31 lakh tonnes. * Tomato cultivation represents about 11 % of India’s total vegetable production and is a major income source for farmers. * The sector benefits from favorable agro‑climatic conditions, advanced irrigation, and efficient logistics across the states. Detailed Insights Madhya Pradesh – The largest tomato producer, delivering 36.18 lakh tonnes. Its fertile soils, moderate climate, and expansive farmland underpin the volume. Key districts include Shivpuri, Jhabua, and Shajapur. Andhra Pradesh – Second in output with 27.03 lakh tonnes. The state’s warm climate and well‑managed irrigation support robust yields. Major districts are Chittoor, Prakasam, Anantapur, Kurnool, and Visakhapatnam. Karnataka – Third place, producing 23.92 lakh tonnes. The state’s developed vegetable system and market linkages drive sales. Principal districts are Kolar and Belagavi. Gujarat – Fourth, contributing 16.64 lakh tonnes. Modern farming practices, irrigation infrastructure, and connectivity to markets boost production. Odisha – Fifth, with 15.06 lakh tonnes. Favorable agro‑climatic conditions enable widespread cultivation across the state. Key Concepts * Tomato Production – The process of cultivating tomato plants from seed to harvest, influencing national food supply. * Agro‑Climatic Conditions – The combination of soil type, temperature, rainfall, and humidity that determines crop suitability. * Irrigation Infrastructure – Water delivery systems such as canals, pumps, and drip lines that sustain crop growth. * Logistics Network – The chain of transportation, storage, and distribution that moves produce from farms to markets. * Agricultural Economy – The economic sector that encompasses farming activities, market dynamics, and rural livelihoods.

Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu pushes for Punjab's leadership in tomato production, hybrid seeds, and paste manufacturing, urging collaboration with HUL and PAU.

The retail price of tomatoes is on the decline as the arrival of the fresh crop has picked up momentum in the wholesale markets. The all-India average retail price of tomato fell to Rs 52.35 per kg as...