ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi organized 'Pusa Rose and Marigold Field Day' in the research farm of the institute. The event was themed 'Rose and Marigold: A Bridge of Science, Innovation, and Farmer Prosperity.' It provided a live look at how new scientific methods are making flower farming more profitable and modern.
During the event, Dr Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI shared that the global market for flowers and decorative plants is worth over $60 billion. India is growing fast in this sector, with flower farming now covering nearly 2.9 lakh hectares and bringing in about Rs.15,000 crore annually. He explained that landscaping and flower farming are no longer just traditional hobbies, however, they have become major business that can bring real wealth to rural India.
Dr Rao informed that the institute showcased several new and improved varieties of rose and marigold. For the flower market, varieties like 'Pusa Sherbet' and 'Pusa Alpana' were displayed for their beauty, freshness and fragrance. For gardens and landscaping, varieties like 'Pusa Abhishek,' 'Pusa Ajay,' Pusa Arun and 'Pusa Lakshmi' were highlighted for their strength and bright colors.
© Indian Council of Agricultural Research
The Dr P.S. Brahmanand, Project Director (WTC), ICAR-IARI discussed about the 'Per Drop More Crop' to enhance the water use efficiency in rose and marigold. Farmers also praised marigold varieties like 'Pusa Narangi Gainda' and 'Pusa Bahar' of African Marigold and Pusa Deep, Pusa Utsav, Pusa Parv and Pusa Arpita of French Marigold which are easy to grow and stay fresh longer, helping farmers to get better prices in the market.
The event saw a big turnout of farmers from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi NCR. Officials from the Delhi Jal Board, CPWD, and different horticulture offices also joined to discuss new floriculture and landscaping projects.
Students from Galgotias University, Hamdard University, and NCR senior secondary schools attended to learn about the science behind rose and marigold flowers. Flower industrialists also participated the field day. With media coverage from Akashvani and Doordarshan, the event successfully sent a message that through science and hard work, flower farming can lead every farmer toward a brighter and more prosperous future.
For more information:
Indian Council of Agricultural Research
www.icar.org.in/
