The trend of growth in horticulture, along with the underlying value of output from the sector, is analysed. The higher remuneration from the sector pulls the farmers towards horticulture, especially cultivation of vegetables. Regression analysis, and a direct correlation between farm size and income levels, is used to understand the relationship between the small and marginal farmers and the diversification in agriculture. Evidently, the diversification of agriculture is highly valuable and critically important for the small and marginal farmers. Although challenges persist, there is need to provide proper infrastructure, generate effective marketing intelligence and provide quality inputs to facilitate diversification.
