Sikkim floriculture industry a boon for local florists

Climatic advantage coupled with a skilled workforce gives Sikkim a definite edge in the business of floriculture and has been attracting a large number of tourists to the region.

Situated in the lower Himalayas, Sikkim is home to around 5,000 species of flowering plants. They include rare species of primulas, rhododendrons, liliums, oaks and ferns.

The state, which is home to over 26 percent of the country's biodiversity with exquisite species of flora and fauna, has been successful in promoting floriculture.

Realizing the potential of this sector, many budding entrepreneurs are taking up floriculture.

Ongmu Doma Bhuttya, a budding entrepreneur from Gangtok, has successfully taken up flower cultivation.

"I am generating good income for my family through flower farming and I am able to educate my children as well, without depending on my husband. Every year I take part in the flower festival in Sikkim. This year I had showcased different varieties of flowers in 150 stalls," said Bhuttya.

At present, Sikkim is producing cut flowers which include roses, anthuriums and gladiolis on a commercial scale.

Sikkim is the only state in the country, which produces high-value cymbidium orchids.

Tourists from different parts of the country visit the famous gardens of Sikkim such as Mainam Garden and Samsara Garden every year to enjoy the flora of the state.

"It is a new type of agriculture that has been introduced in the sector and many educated youth are involved in it. I am very fortunate because there is a lot of scope and we are able to earn well. I want to thank the agriculture department as they are encouraging us," said Palten Lepcha, a local.

Sikkim has grown a large floriculture industry giving the local florists a chance to earn their livelihood and providing a platform for budding entrepreneurs.