Dutch, Thai agencies to help Sikkim develop floriculture

Floriculturists from Netherland and Thailand participating in the International Flower Show here will sign an MoU with the Sikkim government soon to help the state develop its potential in flower farming.
The agreement would be to make Sikkim, the geographical and environmental conditions of which are ideal for floriculture, better equipped to cater to demands and requirements of the international market, Horticulture Secretary Santa Pradhan told PTI here.
Floriculturists from the two countries were ready to provide their expertise and technology to develop hybrids of Sikkim's cymbidium and orchids, he said.
They would also work on the cut flower potential for international markets and help in finding markets and creating transportation strategies for growers here, Pradhan said.

Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said, "By 2015, Sikkim will become a fully organic state. Even our flowers are grown in a natural environment. Our state does not have industrial potential. We have to use our natural resources to progress."
Sikkim's orchids sell in New Delhi for between Rs 300 to 500 per bulb, while in the Netherlands and Denmark, the prices are up to USD 15-50 per bulb, he said.
The International Flower Show began on February 17.