Analysis of Perspectives of Self-sufficiency in Vegetable Production Under Tropical Conditions

The government of India is promoting local vegetable production in Andaman and Nicobar Islands in a policy of sustainable development on tropical bay islands. There has been an increase in area and productivity of vegetables and reduced import of vegetables from the mainland. Improved technologies have been transferred to vegetable farms. However, the majority of farmers rely on private agencies for inputs and marketing activities that limit profits. Lack of cold transport, storage facilities, modern collection centers, and processing industry are still challenges to vegetable growers on islands. Use of good agricultural practices for vegetables includes limited use of synthetic chemicals in the island ecosystem. The pace of adoption of improved practices in vegetables needs to be enhanced to ensure off-season availability. Many island cultures employ organic methods by default and a small amount of effort can establish them as organic hubs for vegetable production. Rising tourism and increasing import cost of vegetables increased the necessity of structural changes in production to make islands self-sufficient in vegetable production.