A riot of colours greets visitors at flower show

A riot of colours greets visitors at flower show

The Hindu

BANGALORE: Bougainvillea, chrysanthemums, gladioli, roses, asters, various cacti, bonsai, herbs and medicinal plants — a riot of colours greeted enchanted visitors at the Indian Independence Day Horticultural Show organised by the Department of Horticulture and the Mysore Horticultural Society.

A large number of plant varieties are on display at the show inaugurated by Mayor R. Narayanaswamy at Lalbagh here on Monday.

Funds

Speaking at the inauguration, R. Srinivas, Minister for Horticulture, said the Government has received Rs. 107 crores from the Union Government under the National Horticulture Mission for organic farming, pre-harvesting and transportation activities.

This was especially targeted at benefiting the small farmers, he said.

Technology

"Israel" technology, which focuses on using the latest technology for better production through less investment, will be introduced on a pilot basis in 10 taluks in the State by next month.

An international organic mela would be held at Lalbagh in November to promote organic farming in the State, Mr. Srinivas said.

He said this year 40 lakh free saplings would be disbursed to farmers. Of these, 11 lakh were cashew saplings.

Nearly 600 new varieties of plants have been introduced at the show this year. Several fruits, flowers, vegetables and horticultural plants with varied quality and vastness are the popular features of the event.

This year's show will comprise potted plants, cut flowers, Ikebana, floral art, Bonsai, vegetable carvings, Dutch flower art, junior arrangement, dry flower arrangement and the new Thai Art arrangements.

Apart from these several stalls displaying saplings, farm products, edible items made from farm produce and other related items were also being sold at the exhibition.