A comparative statement on sustainable development of horticulture in West Bengal (India): Climate change and food security

Abstract

Sustainable Development is a concept focused on advancing the current generation's needs without jeopardizing the capacity of future generations to fulfill their own requirements. Horticulture plays a crucial role as an allied sector of agriculture, offering additional income and alternative livelihoods, particularly to the landless, along with generating employment opportunities during non-agricultural seasons. Moreover, it significantly contributes to value-added services and the food processing industry. This sector possesses the potential to create employment opportunities and foster entrepreneurship among the youth. The rising consumer demand for horticultural crops is evident, driven by an improvement in the quality of life in urban and peri-urban areas. West Bengal, with its diverse climatic conditions, holds substantial potential to meet these increasing demands.