In a major step towards self-reliance in floriculture, a research centre in south Kashmir is preparing to supply locally grown tulip bulbs and seeds to major gardens across India, significantly reducing the country's dependence on costly imports.
The Centre of Excellence for Tulips, being developed by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K) at Kokernag in Anantnag district, is spearheading efforts to promote indigenous tulip production. The initiative aims to make high-quality planting material available within the country and position tulip cultivation as a viable economic alternative for farmers in Kashmir and beyond.
India currently imports tulip bulbs worth an estimated Rs 300–400 crore annually, with nearly 90 percent sourced from the Netherlands. Officials say the new centre is expected to gradually bring down this import bill by ensuring a steady domestic supply.
"At present, most tulip bulbs are imported from foreign markets, but this centre is expected to ensure local availability in the coming years," said Prof Muhammad Ayoub Mantoo, Head of the Mountain Crop Research Station, highlighting the long-term goal of self-sufficiency.
Read more at Deccan Herald
