PUSHP KRISHI MELA under CSIR-Floriculture Mission II inaugurated by LG Ladakh
New Delhi: CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Palampur (Himachal Pradesh) in collaboration with Defence Institute of High-Altitude Research (DIHAR) organised Pushp Krishi Mela under CSIR Floriculture Mission II. The mela was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retired) on 10th August at DRDO-DIHAR Centre in Murtsey Colony.
LG complimented CSIR-IHBT Palampur for providing support to the Ladakhi farmers and expressed joy over the varieties of flowers on exhibit. He also stated that the region has enormous potential for flower production and emphasized the need to provide necessary support and resources to the local farmers. He gave a slogan “Phool ugaao phholo ka vistaar karo”. He also referred Women, Ladakh, and Flowers as the best creation of God. In order to investigate the potential of floriculture and the support required to promote flowers grown in Ladakh, he asked CEC/Chairman, LAHDC Leh to take the lead. He also advised enhancing flower production through off-season cultivation, cold storage, and better transportation.
The LG distributed floriculture supplies (tulip, lilium, and gladiolus) as well as certifications to the farmers. Additionally, he distributed a pamphlet about the CSIR Floriculture Mission in Ladakh. The Mission Organic Development Initiative (MODI) program, developed by LAHDC Leh and endorsed by both Hill Councils, aims to create Ladakh a fully organic region. It was announced by the chairman of LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson.
All possible technical support to the UT Administration was assured by Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director, CSIR-IHBT Palampur. He also informed that other than tulip, they are exploring the potential of Calla Lily and Peony flowers, which are currently in demand in the market.
The Chairman of Ladakh Progressive Cooperative Society, Kargil Mendok Cooperative Society, and CSIR-IHBT Palampur signed the Material Transfer Agreement. Both these cooperatives were also certified for registration and awards for best farmers were given out.
Army officials, representatives from DIHAR, CSIR-IHBT Palampur, and other district officials in addition to LG Advisor Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh Stanzin Chosphel, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ladakh Prof. SK Mehta, Director of DIHAR Dr. OP Chaurasia, and Director of DIHAR Dr. OP Chaurasia attended the occasion.
