A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON- HORTIECOLOGY: INTEGRATE BIODIVERSITY AND NUTRITION THROUGH ORGANIC PRACTICES.

ABSTRACT Organic horticulture is emerging as a vital strategy for creating sustainable food systems and enhancing nutritional security. By significantly reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and harnessing the power of ecological processes, organic cultivation of fruits and vegetables not only fosters soil health but also promotes biodiversity and elevates food quality.(Baranski et al., 2014; Velimirov et al., 2019) Compelling research demonstrates that organically grown crops frequently exhibit higher antioxidant levels and lower pesticide residues, while also delivering a host of environmental benefits.. (Średnicka-Tober et al., 2024) However, it is essential to acknowledge the persistent challenges, such as yield gaps, certification barriers, and affordability issues for smallholder farmers. This review brings together compelling evidence on the nutritional, ecological, and socio-economic impacts of organic horticulture, with a special emphasis on India. It also outlines crucial future research directions to maximize the transformative potential of organic horticulture in advancing sustainable diets.(ICAR, 2023)