Need to tap commercial potential of flowers: Paul

Tribune News Service

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Dehradun, March 4

Governor KK Paul today emphasised the need to tap the commercial potential of flowers by resorting to value-addition activities.

“The commercial potential of flowers has not been fully tapped. There is a huge demand for flowers in the perfume industry. The farmers in the state can grow rare flowers such as Bulgarian rose, the oil of which has a huge demand in the perfumery industry,” said Paul while addressing mediapersons at a curtain-raiser conference in Dehradun before the Spring Festival-2016 tomorrow.

At the spring festival, flowers, shrubs, exotic plants and herbs will be the main theme. “Besides displaying the Bulgarian rose as an inspiration for farmers to start its cultivation, a cancellation postal stamp of seabuckthorn will also be released,” Governor said. Seabuckthorn is valued for its utility in the production of medicines in Ayurveda and Unani.

Dr BS Negi, Director, Horticulture, said the annual flower show was aimed at familiarising farmers and the public with flower and plant wealth of the state.

“In 2000, when the state was created, flowers were cultivated in 150 hectares. Now, the land under its cultivation has grown to 1,400 hectares,” said Paul.

Earlier, the Governor planted a sapling of Ficus Krishnae at Raj Bhawan. Along with the flower show and competition at the Governor’s house, drawing and art competition and cultural events will also be showcased on March 5 and 6. Flower growers from each district will also be honoured.