Eco-friendly management of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum mill.) in the Aravalli Plateau region of Rajasthan

Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) is one of the most important vegetable crops globally, including in the Aravalli plateau region of Rajasthan. The traditional management practices in the region have led to significant environmental degradation, soil erosion, and the overuse of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Eco-friendly management of tomato cultivation integrates sustainable farming practices aimed at reducing the environmental footprint while maintaining productivity. This review explores various eco-friendly management strategies like integrated pest management (IPM), organic farming, use of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides, water conservation methods, and agroforestry approaches in the Aravalli region. Emphasis is placed on techniques that conserve soil fertility, water resources, and biodiversity. The adoption of eco-friendly strategies can increase yields, improve soil health, and reduce the dependency on synthetic inputs. Successful case studies from Rajasthan's Aravalli plateau are highlighted, providing practical insights into sustainable tomato farming and the challenges farmers face in the region.