Lack of local markets & potential buyers hit floriculture in Himachal

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is known for apple production. Now, things are changing in the state. Farmers are taking a huge interest in the floriculture sector. Therefore, in many parts of the state, flower cultivation has been taking place on a large scale. Despite bumper growth, farmers are in a catch-22 situation due to a lack of proper buyers in the local markets. As a result, they have to send their produce to Delhi and Chandigarh. They need to give 10 percent commission to middlemen and Rs 200 per box as transportation cost.

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The first flower market came into force in Parwanoo, but it remained closed for the last two years amid a shortage of purchasers. Flower growers have to suffer heavy losses. Carnations and lilies are being grown in Solan district, in areas like Chail, Dangri, Devthi, Kandaghat, Dharampur, Kothi Devra, Patti, Basal, Paplod, and Dehra. Earlier, such areas were known for the cultivation of mushrooms and tomatoes; currently, Solan has made its name as a flower hub. Over 20 hectares of land in the district are being used for floriculture, improving local farmers’ income.

Flower cultivation has been gaining popularity in the state. At present, 5,000 farmers are growing flowers on 800 hectares of land, 50 hectares more compared to last year. The annual business has surpassed Rs. 100 crore. The climate of Himachal is ideal for the off-season flowers. Its demand is high in several areas like Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. In spite of the scarcity of local markets and buyers, it is a hurdle in the promotion of floriculture in Himachal Pradesh.