Context: Recently, India has become the largest exporter of gherkins in the world. India exported cucumber and gherkins (Pickling Cucumber) to the tune of 1,23,846 metric tonnes with a value of USD 114 million during April-October (2020-21).

About Gherkin

• Gherkin is a term generally used to refer to a savory pickled cucumber.
• Gherkins and commercial cucumbers belong to the same species (Cucumis sativus), but are from different cultivar groups.
• They are cultivated exclusively on "contract farming'' basis.

Cultivation

• India has emerged as the largest exporter of gherkins in the world.
• Nearly 15% production of the world’s gherkin requirement is grown in India.
• Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are the major gherkin producing states in India.

Export

• Gherkins are exported under two categories -- cucumbers and gherkins, which are prepared and preserved by vinegar or acetic acid.
• India currently exports gherkins to more than 20 countries, with major destinations being North America, European countries and Oceanic countries.