Shimla, Oct.3 (ANI): The Commonwealth Games 2010 has brought a bonanza to the horticulturists in Himachal Pradesh as the demand for flowers has shot up.
The florists have got bulk orders to supply flowers mainly roses, carnations and marigolds, during the 12-day mega event.
"The farmers are very enthusiastic for the Commonwealth Games. Farmers who had their polyhouses in 1,000 square meters have increased the area of their polyhouses," said Gopal, a flower grower.
"Farmers who were not able to increase the area of their polyhouses have started growing flowers in open fields to get maximum benefits from the flower business," he added.
The flower growers are expecting to generate more than double income from the flower business. Flower sale this year is expected to be over rupees 600 million particularly during the games.
The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has already placed orders worth rupees 300 million with the state for supplying flowers to New Delhi during the Games.
"The demand for flowers has always been good. Occasionally during the wedding seasons also there has been a great demand. As the Commonwealth Games are about to start the demand for flowers has increased from Delhi," said Hemlata, another flower grower.
Himachal Pradesh is known for growing marigolds, carnations, tulips, lilies, gladioli, chrysanthemums and roses. Approximately 681 hectares of land is under flower cultivation and 2,800 farmers are involved in floriculture.
Many pockets in Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, Mandi, Kullu, Bilaspur and Chamba districts are involved in the flower business. By Hemant Chauhan (ANI)
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