PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF FLORICULTURE IN SELECTED REGIONS OF EAST AND NORTH-EAST HIMALAYAS
A THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH BENGAL
FOR THE AWARD OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ECONOMICS
BY
RAJYASREE BANERJEE
SUPERVISOR
DR. SHANTI CHHETRY
PRINCIPAL P.D. WOMEN’S COLLEGE JALPAIGURI, WEST BENGAL
APRIL, 2017
ABSTRACT The present study delves into the constraints encountered in selected regions of East and Northeast Himalayas that are halting the progress of floriculture in these regions, ways to overcome the challenges faced and successfully penetrate the untapped potential of commercial floriculture in these areas. It also intends to provide a broader spectrum on the opportunities available to an investor in floriculture to cultivate cut flowers and market them profitably. Particularly, in rural areas burdened by pressure of population on land and consequent unemployment, the adoption of agricultural diversification in the form of commercial cultivation of flowers as a main-stream occupation can alleviate the miseries of the rural poor. Post globalization, floriculture has evolved as a viable and remunerative alternative to traditional agriculture with a potential to create gainful self-employment avenues. However, floriculture is yet to develop into a major organized and scientific occupation that could have significantly contributed to national income and the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Considering the vast potential of Floriculture in generating income and employment opportunities among the rural poor, greater involvement of women workforce and enhancement of export earnings, the Government of India has identified this sector as an important segment of the ongoing centrally sponsored schemes on horticulture. It has presently emerged as a hi-tech activity carried out under controlled climatic conditions inside a greenhouse. Commercial floriculture now proves to be a lucrative business as it has higher potential per unit area than most of the field crops, resulting in Indian farmers shifting from traditional to cut flower cultivation. Floriculture has the power to attract and retain very many progressive farmers/entrepreneurs in this sphere. In terms of development, the East and Northeast states may be scaled as among the most backward in the country. Thus with the aim to improve the quality of life of all citizens through the planning process, it is only natural that these regions demand foremost attention. Key issue of agriculture and allied sector if carefully addressed, a breakthrough in the human development graph across these areas can be successfully achieved. Regions of the East and Northeast Himalayas are endowed with rich natural resources, congenial climate, sufficient land, cheap labour and other inherent strengths
iv that make these areas extremely conducive to floriculture. Large variety of flowers can be grown round the year at protected environments at low cost leading to increased availability of varieties of good quality flowers to consumers at affordable prices. Therefore, the government has in the recent years recognized floriculture as an extreme focus segment for development initiatives. There is also a huge untapped emerging market which may prove to be of interest to large domestic and international investors.This zone can prove to be a major contributor in increasing the total production of flowers in the country. Floriculture promises sustainable livelihood and offers various career options for both the skilled and unskilled sector. Multiple livelihood opportunities under floriculture can lead to income enhancement by utilizing local strength and resources. Hence, through various incentives and schemes, the Government is committed to create a positive environment for entrepreneurship development in this field.
In most areas of East and North-east Himalayas, floriculture is still fairly untapped by farmers and entrepreneurs. The low technological base and limited market infrastructure, meagre storage facilities and improper means of transport are not conducive to the growth and development of floriculture. The role played by Government Departments like the Department of Horticulture/Agriculture of the State Governments is highly inadequate. Other serious problems like insurgency and political instability alienates the participation of the private sector in many of these areas. A major constraint is the transportation network of the area. The region has poor air linkages and lacks favourable air cargo space. The airfreight rates are exorbitantly high making the service economically unviable. The awareness about availability of Government schemes is very poor among traders and farmers. Further, the rail network in the Northeastern States is also not very extensive and requires multiple trans- shipments for transporting goods. The hilly terrain of the area creates huge problems in transporting the produces from the fields to prospective markets. The condition of the roads is very poor and gets worse during the long monsoons. Large areas suffer from the absence of electricity. Rainwater harvesting is sadly not practiced during the monsoon months, thereby making irrigation a tough task to achieve during summer.The
v post- harvest losses are a major drawback in terms of lack of proper storage, transportation and a smooth procurement process. With a view to improving the socioeconomic conditions in backward regions of East and North-east Himalayas, the Government takes up special initiatives in the form of various schemes – a boost in the floriculture sector acting as a noteworthy tool in this endeavour. But for such efforts to bear fruits, the correct degree of coordination and communication between the Government and the farmers is an essential prerequisite. Agricultural Universities and Research Institutes carry out experiments and research on the cultivation of new and different varieties of plants but these studies often remain confined within the laboratories and unfortunately fail to reach the land and the growers on it. A proper communication between the Government and the grower with respect to imparting knowledge and training facilities at the correct time can help to strike the right chord. The government offers soft loans to prospective investors on easy terms. It is only to the farmer’s own advantage to make timely use of the financial schemes floated by the Government. Both the Government and the growers need to take two steps forward to bridge the credit gap. There is unsystematic utilization of inputs offered and infrastructure provided by the Government. The subsidy provided by the State Governments is of Front Aided type, due to which the farmers become totally dependent on Government aid. Disorganised and unregulated market structure looms as a giant villain in major areas of East and North-east India. The infrastructure, procurement practices and marketing approaches are the major constraints in development of markets in the region. The development of agricultural marketing systems has been very poor and only a very small quantity of marketable surplus is sold in the regulated markets. The basic infrastructure facilities like storage, warehousing and transportations are missing and thereby affect the storage and mobilization of goods. Only a few States have market regulation act and enacted the same and the middlemen in the process take advantage of the farmers’ poor conditions and weak bargaining power. Packaging and transportation of flowers from production centres to markets are very unscientific. Extensive regions of East and North-East Himalayas have a very limited number of cold storages and only a few of them are operational. In order to exploit the potential of
vi horticultural crops, an efficient cold chain needs to be developed, best done by private enterprises or farmers co-operatives. In our area of study, there is huge shortage of power, particularly in the summer months which causes immense hardship to all players in value addition industry in terms of higher input prices. Appropriate and new trends in packaging material for perishable commodities like cut flowers used in value addition are not readily available to sustain transfer of these products to metropolitan cities. Attractive packaging and value addition as a popular form of non-price competition needs to empower entrepreneurs. Various farmer-centric State and Central schemes have been initiated for holistic development of the Floriculture sector. The HUB and SPOKE is a role model in this sphere. The last decade or so of sustained investments and intensive area expansion has brought Government, Service Providers and farmers together in a new paradigm, which is today driving the development of floriculture in these areas. After observing the economics of protected cultivation of crops like Gerbera, Carnation, Anthurium and Dendrobium in different sizes of polyhouses, we can draw the inference that larger the area of cultivation the more viable is the project and that the net returns keep increasing as the size of the polyhouse increases. It may be concluded that economies of scale are clearly demonstrated in larger polyhouses, as against the smaller ones. For floriculture to be explored optimally, a host of measures may be suggested. Farmers need to be made aware of the benefits of floriculture. State Governments can initiate Floriculture Hubs. Suitable water harvesting measures can be adopted. Drip irrigation system under hi-tech cultivation is to be introduced. Subsidy provided by the government should be ‘Back Aided’. Post-harvest infrastructure has to be strengthened. An efficient and effective cold chain is to be developed. Service Providers need to be actively involved. The State Governments in Northeast India are boosting floriculture by inviting the best available Service Providers in the region who are, in turn, launching models like Hub and Spoke or Public-Private Partnership (PPP). However, challenges faced in terms of infrastructure-building, logistic support, transport and communication, cold chain etc need to be resolved.
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To highlight the case of commercial floriculture in Meghalaya and Nagaland, it is evident that they have successfully applied the above-mentioned models in the local communities where the chosen cluster farmers have exhibited remarkable improvements in their standard of living after pursuing hi-tech floriculture. In West Bengal, the above-mentioned models of Hub and Spoke and PPP are practically non- existent. Undeterred by various limitations, some innovative and progressive farmers have dared to explore new possibilities by diversifying into hi-tech floriculture in a small way, particularly in North Bengal. It is only recently that the Department of Horticulture, Government of West Bengal has realized the importance of such models and is keen on replicating the success evolving from such profitable diversification in other similar regions of the State with the help of a model that would be a prototype of the Hub and Spoke. The unique ‘Hub and Spoke’ model demonstrated at the Horti Hubs in West Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur in Nagaland, have established commercial floriculture as an attractive alternate source of livelihood in the respective localities. It not only improves earning capacity but also ensures better living and self- sufficiency of the selected farmers of the villages in the vicinity of the Hub. Widespread application of such models of hi-tech commercial floriculture in other regions of the East and Northeast Himalayas as well as other parts of the country can effectively lead to attainment of socio-economic welfare and prosperity.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Taking up research work quite late in my life was not an easy decision but I have been blessed by the Almighty to have some precious souls who gave wings to my dreams and helped me follow my passion. Though it would not be possible to mention all the people yet I would be failing in my duty if I do not acknowledge those who spared some of their valuable time and put in relentless efforts to help me accomplish this task. The first name that comes to my mind is of my revered supervisor and thesis advisor Dr. Shanti Chhetry. This would not have been possible without his minute instructions and inspiring guidance through the entire tenure of my research. My heartful gratitude is reserved for you, Dr. Shanti Chhetry. Words would not suffice to express the way I feel indebted to Professor Sanchari Roy Mukherjee and Associate Professor Sudakshina Ray Datta of the Department of Economics, North Bengal University and Dr. Samir Kumar Samanta from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya for the immense help they rendered to me. I am thankful to all the concerned Horticulture Department, the field staff, the District Horticulture Officers and the flower growers of Jaintia Hills, West Khasi Hills and Dimapur districts for their cooperation and guidance that enabled me to effectively collect primary data. I only have words of appreciation and sincere thanks for Ms. Watila Longkumer and Mr. Amitava Mukherjee’s assistance and support who played an integral in the successful completion of my study. I am extremely grateful to my better half Utpal Banerjee and my loving son Ayush Banerjee who stood by me at every step, constantly encouraging and offering unwavering support in every possible way. I take this opportunity to thank each and every person who has in some way, directly or indirectly, helped me during this research work.
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Contents DECLARATION ...... ii CERTIFICATE ...... iii ABSTRACT ...... iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ...... ix CONTENTS ...... x LIST OF TABLES ...... xii LIST OF FIGURES ...... xv CHAPTERS
Chapter I : Introduction ...... 1 1.1 - Floriculture in India: Past and Present ...... 1 1.2 - Floriculture in Eastern and North Eastern Himalayas in the backdrop of the national scenario ...... 3 1.3 – Review of Literature ...... 15 1.4 – Research Gaps ...... 33 1.5 - Objectives ...... 34 1.6 – Research Questions ...... 34 1.7 - Hypothesis ...... 35 1.8 – Methodology and Data Collection ...... 36 1.9 - Chapterisation ...... 38 1.10 – Limitation of the Study ...... 39
Chapter II : Growth of Floriculture in East and North-East Himalayas ...... 41 2.1 - Arguments for the area chosen for the study ...... 41 2.2 - Special characteristic features of this region ...... 43 2.3 - Types of flowers and their techniques of cultivation ...... 59 2.4 - Floriculture as an alternative source of livelihood in the Region ...... 83
Chapter III : Problems of Floriculture in East and North-East Himalayas ...... 87 3.1 - Social background vs Modern attitude towards floriculture ...... 87 3.2 – Credit Gap ...... 90 3.3 – Logistic Gap ...... 91 3.4 - Communication gap between the Government and the Farmers ...... 95
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3.5 – Agronomy Support ...... 98
Chapter IV : Marketing Aspect of Floriculture ...... 109 4.1 – Role of Middleman ...... 109 4.2 – Cold Chain ...... 110 4.3 – Market Structure ...... 114 4.4 – Value addition vis-à-vis Floriculture ...... 119
Chapter V : Cost Benefit Analysis ...... 123
Chapter VI : Role of Government in developing Floriculture ...... 148 6.1 – Schemes available at present ...... 149 6.2 – Promotion of Joint Venture ...... 155 6.3 – Lacuna in implementation of Government schemes ...... 157
Chapter VII : Prospects of Floriculture ...... 161 7.1 – Thadlaskein Horti-Hub at West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya ...... 165 7.2 – Mairang Horti-Hub at Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya ...... 187 7.3 – Dimapur Horti-Hub at Nagaland ...... 204 7.4 – West Bengal Scenario ...... 221 7.4.1 - Status of Protected Cultivation in West Bengal ...... 225 7.4.2 - Shortcomings in the Floriculture Value Chain in West Bengal ...... 225 7.4.3 - Sikkim’s tryst with Floriculture ...... 226 7.4.4 - Exemplary initiative undertaken in Floriculture in West Bengal ...... 227
Chapter VIII : Conclusion and Suggestions ...... 237
BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 244
QUESTIONNAIRE ...... 255
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List of Tables
Table No. Particulars Page No.
1.2.1 Product Specific Intensive Floriculture Zones in India ...... 10 2.2.1 Structure of Land Holding in Meghalaya ...... 47 2.2.2 Pattern of Demography of Meghalaya ...... 49 2.2.3 Comparison between Rural and Urban Population of Meghalaya ...... 50
2.2.4 District wise horti hubs with the type of flower they Specialize ...... 53
2.2.5 Potential Crops in Nagaland ...... 57
2.3.1 Bed material Composition of Gerbera ...... 62 2.3.2 Bed material composition of Carnation ...... 71 2.3.3 Water quality standards for Phalaenopsis ...... 81 2.3.4 Nutritional composition for Phalaenopsis ...... 81 2.3.5 Standard Fertilizer solutions for the Phalaenopsis ...... 82 3.3.1 Distance from State capital to (in Kms) ...... 92
3.3.2 Status of Road Network ...... 92 3.3.3 Railway Network in the North East region ...... 93 3.5.1 Pest control in Gerbera ...... 101 3.5.2 Disease control in Gerbera ...... 102 3.5.3 Pest Control in Carnation ...... 105 4.2.1 Region wise Number and Capacity of Cold Storages in India (2011) ...... 111
4.2.2 Commodity Wise Break-up of Cold Storages (2009) ...... 113
5.1 Cost of production of Gerbera cut flowers in 96 M 2 Polyhouse ...... 125 5.2 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 96 M 2 area Gerbera polyhouse ...... 125
5.3 Cost of production of Gerbera cut flowers in 200 M2 Polyhouse ...... 126 5.4 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 200 M2 area Gerbera polyhouse ..... 126 5.5 Cost of production of Gerbera cut flowers in 500 M2 Polyhouse ...... 127
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5.6 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 500 M2 area Gerbera polyhouse ..... 127 5.7 Cost of production of Gerbera cut flowers in 1008 M2 Polyhouse ...... 128 5.8 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 1008 M2 area Gerbera polyhouse ... 128 5.9 Cost of production of Carnation cut flowers in 96 M 2 polyhouse ...... 130 5.10 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 96 M 2 area Carnation polyhouse .... 130
5.11 Cost of production of Carnation cut flowers in 200 M2 polyhouse ...... 131 5.12 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 200 M2 area Carnation polyhouse . 131 5.13 Cost of production of Carnation cut flowers in 500 M2 polyhouse ...... 132 5.14 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 500 M2 area Carnation polyhouse . 132 5.15 Cost of production of Carnation cut flowers in 1008 M2 polyhouse ...... 133 5.16 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 1008 M2 area Carnation polyhouse 133 5.17 Cost of production of Anthurium cut flowers in 96 M 2 polyhouse ...... 135
5.18 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 96 M 2 area Anthurium polyhouse .. 135 5.19 Cost of production of Anthurium cut flowers in 200 M2 polyhouse ...... 136
5.20 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 200 M2 area Anthurium polyhouse 136 5.21 Cost of production of Anthurium cut flowers in 500 M2 polyhouse ...... 137 5.22 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 500 M2 area Anthurium polyhouse 137 5.23 Cost of production of Anthurium cut flowers in 1008 M2 polyhouse ...... 138 5.24 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 1008 M2 area Anthurium
polyhouse ...... 138
5.25 Cost of production of Dendrobium cut flowers in 96 M2 polyhouse ...... 140 5.26 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 96 M2 area Dendrobium polyhouse 140 5.27 Cost of production of Dendrobium cut flowers in 200 M2 polyhouse ...... 141 5.28 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 200 M2 area Dendrobium polyhouse ...... 141 5.29 Cost of production of Dendrobium cut flowers in 500 M2 polyhouse ...... 142 5.30 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 500 M2 area Dendrobium polyhouse ...... 142 5.31 Cost of production of Dendrobium cut flowers in 1008 M2 polyhouse ...... 143 5.32 Estimate of Net Income of a farmer from 1008 M2 area Dendrobium
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polyhouse………………………………………………………………………………………….………….143 6.1 List of Agri Export zones for Floriculture Development ...... 148 7.1.1 List of spokes in Thadlaskein and their production and return in 2014-15 ...... 177 7.1.2 Expected output and estimated return from traditional agriculture crop Of spokes in Thadlaskein in 2014-15 ...... 178 7.2.1 List of Spokes in Mairang and their production and return in 2014-15 ...... 196
7.2.2 Expected output and estimated return from traditional agriculture crop Of spokes in Mairang in 2014-15 ...... 197
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List of Figures
Figure No. Particulars Page No.
1.2.a Line Diagram of all India Area Under Floriculture in Hectares from 2006-07 to 2012-13...... 06 1.2.b Bar Diagram of all India production of loose flowers in MT from 2006-07 to 2012-13...... 06 1.2.c Bar Diagram of all India production of cut flowers in Lakh Nos ...... 07 1.2.d Pie Chart of leading cut flower producing states 2012-13 ...... 08 1.2.e Pie Chart of leading loose flower producing states 2012-13 ...... 09 5.a Line diagram comparing net income of farmers in different sizes of
polyhouse in 10 years over four different crops...... 145
7.1.a Bar diagram comparing income from Hi-Tech Floriculture and
estimated income from Traditional Agriculture on same Plot of
land by farmers in Thadleskein in the year 2014-15…………………………………….….179
7.2.a Bar diagram comparing income from Hi-Tech Floriculture and
estimated income from Traditional Agriculture on same Plot of
land by farmers in Mairang in the year 2014-15……………………….………………….…198
7.3.a Bar Diagram of Production of Lilium in Nagaland from 2005-06 to 2013-14 ..... 205 7.3.b Line Diagram of Production of Lilium in Nagaland from 2005-06 to 2013-14 .... 206 7.3.c Bar Diagram of Production of Anthurium in Nagaland (2005-06 to 2013-14) .... 206 7.3.d Line Diagram of Production of Anthurium in Nagaland (2005-06 to 2013-14) .. 207 7.3.e Bar Diagram of Production of Rose in Nagaland from 2005-06 to 2013-14 ...... 207 7.3.f Line Diagram of Production of Rose in Nagaland from 2005-06 to 2013-14 ...... 208 7.3.g Bar Diagram of Production of Orchid in Nagaland from 2010-11 to 2013-14 .... 208 7.3.h Line Diagram of Production of Orchid in Nagaland from 2010-11 to 2013-14 ... 209 7.3.i Bar Diagram of Production of Gerbera in Nagaland from 2010-11 to 2013-14 ... 209 7.3.j Line Diagram of Production of Gerbera in Nagaland from 2010-11 to 2013-14 . 210
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Chapter I: Introduction India is mainly an agro‐based country. Though the growth rate of India’s National Income depends much on the growth rate of her industrial and service activities, the maximum portion of the working people of India still depends on agriculture and allied activities for their livelihood. Hence, the development of the Indian economy depends, to a large extent, on the improvement of the standard of living of the majority of Indian population who live in rural areas. For India to attain the goal of ‘inclusive growth’, a proper rural development strategy has to be evolved with positive government intervention. In this regard, the possibilities of diversification in productive activities in rural areas have a major role to play. One of the aspects of diversification in Indian agriculture involves diversification in primary activities with a gradual shift of workers from agriculture to allied activities like poultry, dairy, fisheries, horticulture and floriculture etc. Floriculture or flower farming is a discipline of horticulture concerned with the cultivation of flowering and ornamental plants for gardens and for floristry, comprising the floral industry. India is blessed with a diversity of agro‐climatic conditions prevailing in different regions in the country which ensures that it is ideally suited to produce almost all the ornamental crops throughout the year. 1.1 Floriculture in India: Past& Present The history of flowering plants and gardens in India is as old as its civilization. The first evidence of an ornamental plant, the Pipal, can be marked on a seal from Mohenjodaro. Another one from Harappa depicts a tree similar to that of a weeping willow. Similar presentation of flowers may be widely noted in ancient paintings, murals and coins. The Aryans of the Vedic period were great lovers of trees and flowers. They started the use of flowers in religious and social ceremonies. They were attracted to flowers like Kamal, Champa, Madhavi, Bela, Chameli and others. The Lotus was not only a popular flower but was also regarded by both Hindus and Buddhists as a symbol of purity. The life of Buddha was associated with a number of trees from birth to nirvana. Buddhists nurtured belief in planting trees and flowering plants on a large scale as that aided to create a peaceful environment ideally suited for meditation. The Kadamba was
1 associated with Lord Krishna and the Ashoka with Sita. The Ramayana and the Mahabharata provided descriptive narrations of flowering plants and beautiful gardens. The frescos at Ajanta have also illustrated the importance of flowers and gardens in ancient India. The Mughal emperors were great patrons of flowers too. Babur deserves the credit for the introduction of the Persian Rose in India. The Rajputs like Raja Man Singh, Jai Singh and others established several beautiful gardens. Popular flowers of this period were oleander, hibiscus, jasmine, keora etc.1 With the arrival of the British in India, the country experienced a make‐over in the entire pattern of gardening. Until then, only scented trees and shrubs, climbers and bulbs could be usually seen in Indian gardens, which were otherwise devoid of flowering annuals. The English introduced beautiful annuals and biennials like carnation, verbena, dahlia etc. Before the British came, the Indians were only aware of making garlands and guldasta (bouquets) but were unaware of the concept of flower arrangements for interior decoration, which they learned from the British. The greatest contribution in this regard by the British to our country was the establishment of botanical gardens, the first one being in Sibpur near Kolkata. The credit for offering floriculture a good start and consequently some headway went largely to the noted administrator‐cum‐scientist Dr. M. S. Randhawa and was carried forward by noted scientist Dr. B. P. Pal. Due to their effort, coupled with the encouragement by Late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Late President Zakir Hussain, floriculture was elevated to its present status.2 A drastic transformation in the field of gardening during the post‐Independence period also left its impact on the flowering habits among Indians. Globalization led to migration of modern trends. A change in the tastes and preferences of consumers towards more and better varieties of flowers resulted in raising the status of commercial floriculture in the last two decades. Floriculture, which was earlier just a pastime of the wealthy class and a hobby of flower‐lovers, now opened a new vista in agri‐business namely commercial floriculture. With the increase in purchasing power of people, the flower‐ lovers were now ready to buy them from markets to beautify their home as well as gift their dear ones. This trend was also due to the lack of both time and space to grow flowers particularly in urban areas and metropolitan cities. Flowers thus came to the
2 limelight as the most wanted item in any social occasion for conveying one’s status and aesthetic sense.3 Thus, the flower business is on a full swing at present. People cannot do without flowers in their everyday life – whether it is their day‐to‐day activities or frequent social functions and celebrations. Weddings, graduations, funerals, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Christmas etc mark the peak periods of demand for flowers and plants. Cut flowers are combined into elaborate arrangements and bouquets. Flowering and foliage plants are combined together in baskets or planters or sold individually with pot covers and sleeves to compliment their beauty. They are readily available at florists, supermarkets, corner grocery stores, mass‐market outlets and garden centres.4 Post globalization, floriculture has made its mark as an important off‐shoot of diversification in agriculture. It has evolved as a viable and remunerative alternative to traditional agriculture with a potential to create gainful self‐employment avenues among small and marginal farmers too. It also serves as a source of earning the much‐ needed foreign exchange in developing countries like India when engaged in exports with countries abroad.5 1.2 Floriculture in Eastern & North‐Eastern Himalayas in the backdrop of the national scenario: Floriculture has assumed a definite commercial status in recent times with changing life styles and increased urban affluence, particularly during the past two‐three decades. Appreciation of the potential of commercial floriculture has resulted in the blossoming of this field into a viable agri‐business option. The commercial activity of production and marketing of floriculture products is also a source of gainful and quality employment to scores of people. Undoubtedly, floriculture has a significant role to play in the economy of India which has a large variety of flora and fauna, both in the hills and plains. However, floriculture is yet to develop into a major organized and scientific occupation that could have significantly contributed to national income and also the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Considering the vast potential of Floriculture sector in generating income and employment opportunities among the rural poor, greater involvement of women
3 workforce and enhancement of export earnings, the Government of India has identified this sector as an important segment of the ongoing centrally sponsored schemes on horticulture. The economic reforms and liberalization policies introduced from 1991 and modified EXIM policies of 1995‐96 and 1999‐2002 have given fillip to this sector. After liberalization, the Government of India identified this activity as a sunrise industry and accorded it 100 per cent export‐oriented status. Later, many writers have termed this industry as ”Rosy Business sector, a Global Concern, Blossoming Industry, Thrust Area, Money Spinning, Lucrative export‐oriented sector” etc. Growing demand and much higher return per unit of land than any other agricultural activity has prodded farmers to take to this sector.6 India adopted the New Economic Policy since 1991.The main objective of this policy was to solve foreign currency crisis and remove the stagnancy through a liberal economy. This resulted in extensive changes in every sector of the Indian economy. To promote agricultural export, the Union Government gave incentives through a number of policies. National Horticulture Board (NHB), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) were to play a supporting role and recently the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) was introduced as a centrally sponsored scheme. From 2001, India experienced tremendous growth in floriculture – in terms of area, production and export.7 Along with the progress in agriculture and floriculture, the Green House Technique and the Drip Irrigation System came as a boon. Adoption of such modern techniques helped floriculture to progress in leaps and bounds. Drip irrigation is a watering system that delivers a slow‐moving supply of water at a gradual rate directly to the soil. It is also sometimes referred to as micro‐irrigation or trickle irrigation and consists of a network of pipes, tubing valves and emitters. The use and benefits of Green House Technique were recognised. The Green House is one of the framed structures covered with transparent material to grow crops under conditions of controlled environment. This concept was reinforced with the introduction of drip irrigation systems with effective application of fertilizers.
4
Throughout the world, consumption and demand of flowers were increasing with time. Though the European countries developed their flora business very early, they failed to produce adequate quantities to cater to the growing demand for flowers worldwide. The supply fell short of the demand generated. This situation of excess demand led to the development of new production centres in Asian countries too, India being one of them. India is also considered one of the largest consumer base with unlimited opportunities for growth in flower retailing. India's flower trade is attracting a large demand from an estimated 300 million middle class people. Flower consumption in the cities and major towns is reportedly growing at 40 per cent per annum.8 Due to the increasing demand for flowers, retail shops and boutiques have mushroomed all over the cities and towns. The demand will get further impetus with the growth of modern retailing concepts. At the same time, India’s attraction as a favourite tourism destination in the world, has led to a new boom in flower consumption in the Hospitality industry. Cover Story Flower designing is a centuries old art, craft and skill in India by way of displaying flower arrangements in temples of worship, marriages and many religious and social functions. A surging per capita income and progressive lifestyles have given a boost to the market for florists and floral designing in India. The ever‐growing preference to flowers by gift‐ lovers helps in the consistent growth of the floral industry. Changes in the area under floriculture from 2006‐07 to 2012‐13 are shown in Fig‐1.2a below whereas Fig‐1.2b, 1.2c, 1.2d, 1.2e below respectively represent the production of loose flowers, cut flowers, leading cut flower and loose flower producing states in India in 2012‐13.
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Fig 1.2.a : All India Area under Floriculture in Hectares
300 254 233 250 183 191 200 166 167 144 150 All India Area under 100 Floriculture
50
0 2006‐07 2007‐08 2008‐09 2009‐10 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
Fig 1.2.b : All India Production of Loose Flower in MT 2000 1729 1800 1652 1600 1400 1200 987 1021 1031 1000 880 868 800 600 400 200 0 2006‐07 2007‐08 2008‐09 2009‐10 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
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Fig 1.2.c : All India Production of Cut Flowers in Lakh Nos. 80000 75066 76732 70000 66671 69027 60000 50000 43654 47942 37175 40000 30000 20000 10000 0
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
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Fig 1.2.d : Leading Cut Flower Producing States 2012‐13
Others 6.80% West Bengal Jharkhand 2.20% 33.10% HP 2.30% West Bengal Assam 4.90% karnataka Uttrakhand 4.70% Maharashtra UP 6.40% Andhra Pradesh Odhisa UP Uttrakhand Assam HP Odhisa 7.90% Jharkhand
Andhra Pradesh Others 9% karnataka 12.30% Maharashtra 10.30%
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
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Fig 1.2.e :Leading Loose Flower Producing States 2012‐13
Sikkim 1.53% Odhisa 1.51% Andhra Pradesh 12.98% Others 13.51% UP 1.82% Tamil Nadu 18.10% Andhra Pradesh Chattishgarh 2.18% Tamil Nadu
Karnataka HP 2.18% Madhya WB 3.77% Pradesh Gujrat Haryana 3.74% Maharashtra
Haryana
Maharashtra WB 6.08% HP
Chattishgarh Gujrat 8.63% Madhya Pradesh UP 12% Karnataka 12.00%
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
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Table 1.2.1: Product Specific Intensive Floriculture Zones In India
SL ZONE FLOWER CROPS NO. 1 Area Around : Delhi, UP & Punjab Rose, Carnation, Chrysanthemum & Gladiolus. 2 Area Around : Bengaluru Rose, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, And Ornamental Foliage Plants & Seeds. 3 Area Around : Trivendrum Orchid, Anthurium& Foliage plants. 4 Area Around : Pune & Nashik Rose, Carnation, Gladiolus, Dahlia, Chrysanthemum, Aster& Tuberose. 5 North eastern Region including Sikkim Orchid, Gladiolus, Lilium, Gerbera, Salvia, Anthurium& other Foliage Plants. 6 Area Around : Srinagar Gladiolus, Lilly, Carnation & Rose. 7 Area Around : Kolkata Lotus, Tuberose, Jasmine, Chrysanthemum & Dahlia. 8 Area Around : Solan& Himachal Gladiolus & other Bulbous plants Pradesh and seeds. 9 Area Around : Coimbatore including Jasmine, Tuberose, Rose, Nilgiris Chrysanthemum, Carnation & Orchids.
Source : Indian Horticulture Database 2013
All states in India have a tradition of growing flowers. Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and the north‐east states are the major flower‐growing states in India. Tamilnadu is the largest loose flower producing state while West Bengal is the leading cut flower producing state in India. Rose is the principal cut flower grown all over the country. Aster, marigold, tuberose, gladiolus are grown in open field while gerbera, carnation, rose, orchids, anthurium are grown under greenhouse conditions.9 About 190 thousand ha area was under cultivation in floriculture in 2011‐12.Production of flowers are estimated to be 1.031 million loose flowers and 690.27 million cut flowers in 2011‐12.India has exported 3,09,26,023 MT of floriculture products to the world for the worth of Rs.365.32 crores in 2011‐12 to countries like USA, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Japan, Canada and UAE.10
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The Following flower diagram depicts the status of floriculture in India in 2013‐14 :
2,33,000 Hectares used for floriculture
22,485 Tonnes exported (worth Rs. 455.91 17,29,000 Crores) Tonnes of loose Flowers produced
5,159 763.32 Tones (worth Crore units of cut Rs.86.60 crore) flowers produced imported by US.
Source : APEDA 2013‐14
Indian Floriculture at a glance
India also enjoys some geographical advantages in the form of being suitably located between two major world markets namely Europe and East Asia. The mild winters in
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India allows the country to export flowers to temperate countries during this season when there is huge demand of flowers due to significant festivals like Christmas and New Year and special occasions like Valentine’s Day. The cheap availability of labour in India, which is almost 10‐15 times lower than that of countries like Netherlands, Israel and Japan, is an added benefit. Research on floriculture is conducted in a number of research institutions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in the horticulture or floriculture departments of State Agricultural Universities and under the All India Coordinated Improvement Project with a network of about twenty centres. The prime interests have been on crop management, standardization of agro‐techniques including improved propagation methods, plant protection and post‐harvest management. Recently, technologies for protected cultivation and tissue culture for mass propagation have also received attention. Production technology, particularly, the agronomic requirements and control methods for important diseases and insect pests have also been developed. Protected cultivation11 is not very commonly practised in India. The greenhouse designs and structures for modern floriculture units are mostly imported from countries like Holland, Israel, France and the USA. While exports remain the prime motivator for Indian cultivators, the demand in the domestic market is also on the rise. But marketing of cut flowers is not organised enough. Only in a few metros some modern showrooms of flowers have come up where flowers are kept in controlled temperature conditions with considerable attention to value added service. Two auction centres have been set up at Bangalore and Mumbai. A number of Export Oriented Units (EOUs) have been established which are largely dependent on foreign collaborations for technological support. For the Indian entrepreneur, the joint ventures are more like turn‐key collaboration. But lately, some large corporate houses like ESSAR, TATA, Reliance, ITC, Bharti have also ventured into floriculture.12 Ever since the Government of India identified floriculture as a sunrise industry13 due to its high growth potential and accorded it 100% export oriented status, it has emerged as a hi‐tech activity taking place under controlled climatic conditions inside a greenhouse. The liberalization of industrial and trade policies paved the way for
12 development of export‐oriented production of cut flowers. The new seed policy made it feasible to import planting material of international varieties. Commercial floriculture now proves to be a lucrative business as it has higher potential per unit area than most of the field crops, resulting in Indian farmers shifting from traditional to cut flower cultivation for the purpose of export. Gestation period of flowers is lesser than other crops and flower products are also capable of earning foreign exchange 25‐30 times more than cereals or any other agricultural/horticultural products. Also, Floriculture has the power to attract and retain very many progressive farmers/entrepreneurs in this sphere. This is how the liberalized economy has given an impetus to the Indian entrepreneurs to establish export‐oriented floriculture units under controlled climatic conditions.14 Additionally, there were substantial duty exemptions for imports including cut flowers, flower seeds and tissue‐cultured plants. Also, allowing 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) in the industry has facilitated joint ventures, ensuring a steady inflow of capital and modern technology. Further subsidies have been offered for air‐freight for export of cut‐flowers and tissue cultured plants, and direct subsidy of up to 50 per cent has been offered for establishing cold storage, pre‐cooling units, refrigerated vans and green houses. Subsidy is also given by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), for using improved packaging material. Refinance assistance is available from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to a number of hi‐tech units at reasonable interest rates. The Union Ministry of Agriculture has also set up 11 model floriculture centre units, two large centers and 20 tissue culture units. The East and North‐East Himalayas, being naturally blessed with enormous biodiversity and congenial climate, can make use of floriculture as an effective tool for economic upliftment. I have selected the states of Meghalaya and Nagaland to focus on how floriculture has developed here and hence opened a new avenue for socio‐economic prosperity of these regions.
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Meghalaya Commercial floriculture is a relatively recent concept in Meghalaya. Despite the fact that there is a deep‐rooted cultural love of flowers amongst the people of the State, the cultivation has been mainly restricted to the growing of potted, garden and houseplants for aesthetic value amongst the general populace. The launching of the Horticulture Mission changed all that with the introduction of cut flower cultivation of anthurium, roses, carnations, liliums and orchids. A new awareness was created amongst the farming community that flowers are not only a feast for the eyes but could also be a potential source of income. The introduction of polyhouses further boosted the adoption of cut flower cultivation across the state. This is amply demonstrated by the fact that the area under protected floriculture (roses, anthurium, gerbera, carnations, liliums etc) went up from almost negligible, in the pre mission days, to 35 h a during 2009‐10 with an annual production of 62 lakh cut flowers. In the process, new flower crops of heliconia, BOP, chrysanthemum, zanthedescia, iris, gladioli and foliage plants of leather leaf fern, Xanadu, Golden Rod, Limonium have been introduced and are slowly gaining acceptance amongst the farming community. The adoption of the Hub and Spoke model of horticulture development with a distinct horti‐business and marketing model as initiated by the hortihubs of Samgong in East Garo Hills and Dewlieh in RiBhoi District, have been hugely instrumental in the success of floriculture in the state with linkages between the producers and markets as well as the PHM infrastructure being facilitated and catered by the horti‐hubs. Such has been the impact that Meghalaya now ranks as one of the leading states in the North‐East for the production and supply of cut flowers to mainland consumer markets. These successes have led to the establishment of seven additional hubs in other districts of the state with work commencing on another additional seven new hubs in Mynkre, Mairang, Sarengma, Zigzak, Dawagre, Phodkylla and Baljek.15 Nagaland Floriculture has been one of the most important activities of the state due to the inherent love of flowers especially amongst the ladies since time immemorial. Since 2004‐05, due to the tremendous push from the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation (Government of India) under its Horticulture Mission, floriculture is now
14 one of the most flourishing industries of the state, bringing a revenue of about Rs.1.50 to 2.00 crores annually, and most importantly, offering employment opportunities to thousands of youth and SHGs. One of the important crops that are being grown under Hi‐tech Greenhouses is Zantedeschia. So far, about 42 ha of area has been developed both under hi‐tech and low‐cost greenhouses. Also, about 450 ha is being cultivated under open field conditions for heliconia, bird of paradise and dry flowers. It is estimated that about 70,000 stems of cut flowers are being produced in a week in the state. Apart from offering greenhouses and quality planting materials to the entrepreneurs, the State Department of Horticulture also provides buy‐back arrangements, technical support, cold room facilities etc. Thus, the introduction of Horticulture Mission has been a blessing for the State of Nagaland and most importantly for the flower growers of the State.16
1.3 : Review of Literature (i) Development Perspective on the Research Problem: “Agricultural Diversification in South Asia : Patterns, Determinants and Policy Implications” by P.K. Joshi, Ashok Gulati, Pratap S. Birthal and Laxmi Tewari (2003) revealed that the South Asian countries are gradually diversifying with some inter‐ country variation in favour of high value commodities, namely fruits, vegetables, livestock and fisheries. Agricultural diversification is strongly influenced by price policy, infrastructure development (especially markets and roads), urbanization and technological improvements. Rainfed areas have benefited more as a result of agricultural diversification in favour of high value crops by substituting inferior coarse cereals. Agricultural diversification is also contributing to employment opportunities in agriculture and increasing exports. The need is to suitably integrate production and marketing of high value commodities through appropriate institutions. Market reforms in developing and strengthening desired institutions through required legal changes would go a long way in boosting agricultural growth, augmenting income of small farm holders and promoting exports. “Sustainable livelihood and livelihood diversification” by Karim Hussein and John Nelson aims to explore the alternative routes to sustainable livelihoods pursued by rural people
15 in contrasting agro‐ecological settings in four countries: Bangladesh, Mali, Ethiopia and Zimbabwe. In relation to this aim, the overall focus is to understand how institutional arrangements determine rural people’s entitlements, provide the setting within which they construct their livelihoods, and determine who gains and loses in the struggle to maintain livelihoods. It is proposed that rural people construct their livelihoods via three main strategies: agricultural intensification; livelihood diversification and migration. The book “Agricultural Diversification in India” (1999) by Ramesh Chand highlights the fact that agricultural diversification as a strategy for development has received increased attention in Government policies in the country during recent years. The Strategy envisages changes in production activities of farm sector, to adjust to changes in economic environment and to face the challenges of persistent unemployment and natural resources degradation. The broad objectives of this Strategy are to raise per capita income through opening of avenues for productive employment in farm and non‐ farm sector, and to make the economic growth broad based and sustainable in the long run. The success of this Policy for Agricultural Diversification requires identification of suitable region specific diversification alternatives, creation of physical and institutional infrastructure facilities, and implementation of appropriate intervention strategies. Against this backdrop the Book explores the potential and prospects of Agricultural Diversification in the agriculturally advanced Green Revolution region with focus on the State of Punjab which has attained highest level of agricultural success in the country. Agricultural Diversification acquires special significance in this region because of the ecological and environmental problems and strain on natural resources associated with the Green Revolution technology, and difficulty in sustaining growth in Output and income. Time Series and Cross Section Data are used to draw inferences regarding the role of the State Policy and development of infrastructure like irrigation facilities, roads, markets, institutions etc., in promoting Agricultural Diversification. The study further examines the implications of Agricultural Diversification for income, employment, natural resources and ecology. Utpal Kumar De and Manabendu Chattopadhyay in “Crop Diversification by Poor Peasants and role of infrastructure: Evidence from West Bengal” (2010) indicated that
16 the question of sustainable income and employment in the rural areas seems to be very much dependent on the degree of diversification of land use towards cultivating various crops. In view of this, crop diversification has been an important issue of agricultural development not only in India, but also in other parts of the world. In India, the growth of area under cultivation in different states remained stagnant in the current decades and the growth of yield of various crops has reached the saturation level. Efforts are now being taken in different regions of India to cultivate those crops, which are remunerative and environment friendly. To examine this, an attempt has been made in this paper to study intensively, the nature and extent of crop diversification in West Bengal, a rice‐growing state of India, for the period of 1970 to 2005. A number of explanatory factors have been considered to explain this phenomenon. The findings, primarily based on official data, suggest that marginal and small farmers play a positive role in crop diversification and that has been supported by the growth of various infrastructure networks during the period under consideration. Aradhana Singh in “Diversification in Agriculture” (2009) examined that crop diversification is the outcome of several interactive effects of many factors. Irrigation, rainfall, temperature, and soil fertility are environmental factors. Technology‐ related factors include seeds, fertilizers and water technologies, and also those related to marketing, harvest, storage, agro‐processing, distribution, logistics, etc. Household‐ related factors include regional food traditions, fodder and fuel as well as the labour and investment capacity of farm people and their communities. Price‐related factors are input and output prices as well as national and international trade policies and other economic policies that affect the prices either directly or indirectly. Institutional and Infrastructure‐related factors include farm size, location and tenancy arrangements, research, training, marketing and government regulating policies etc. Diversification in agriculture has tremendous impact on the agro‐socio‐economic aspect and uplifting of resource‐poor farming communities. It generates income and employment for rural youth year round for the ultimate benefits of the farmers in the country. It implies the use of local resources. With globalization, diversification in agriculture is one means to increase the total production and productivity in terms of
17 quality, quantity and monetary gains under diverse agro‐climatic situations of the country. “Decentralization and Participatory Rural Development” by Muhammad Shakil Ahmed and Noraini Bt. Abu Talib (2011) reveals that most developing nations are still struggling for efficient use of their resources. In order to overcome physical and administrative constraints of the development, it is necessary to transfer power from the central government to local authorities. Such distribution of power improves resource management and community participation which is considered key to sustainable development. Advocates of decentralization argue that a decentralized government is a source to improve community participation in rural development. A decentralized government is considered more responsive towards local needs and development of poor people. There are many obstacles to expand the citizen participation in rural areas. There are many approaches for participatory development but all have to face the same challenges. The paper mentioned above highlights the literature about decentralization and participatory rural development. Concept and modalities of decentralization, dimensions of participation, types of rural participation and obstacles to participation are also discussed in this paper. “Implications of the Methods of Agricultural Diversification in Reference with Malda District : Drawback and Rationale” by Swadesh Pal and Shyamal Kar (2012) aims to implement different measures of crop diversification for a uniform data set of Malda district. At the same time it focuses on status and changing pattern of crop diversification in different blocks of Malda district with a comparative outlook of District and State level status. It was assessed that Monotonization in crop diversification is going on which is reflected through forward and backward shifting crop diversification into a single class in between 2001 to 2008. Peasants are still addicted with cereals instead of high value crops. “Population, Land Use and Environment” edited by Barbara Entwisle and Paul C. Stern (2005) focuses on research in which land use or land cover change is a key mediator of human‐environment interactions, in which demographic variables figure prominently among the driving forces investigated, and in which efforts are made to investigate the causal mechanisms by which human population changes affect land use and
18 environmental outcomes. It takes stock of the progress that has been made in such research to see what has been learned, to identify gaps and problems that remain, and to develop a set of recommendations about future research directions. The article “Linking Land Use Planning and Regulation to Economic Development: A Literature Review” by Jae Hong Kim (2011) examines how regional economic prosperity is affected by land use planning and regulation by reviewing relevant literature. It identifies a set of complex causal links between land use and regional economies— through (1) development pattern changes and spatial structure reformation, (2) land efficiency improvements, (3) supply constraints and price increases in property markets, and (4) labour market shifts—that suggest the possibility of countervailing effects. The review also reveals that the economic consequences of land use policies may highly depend on context and that institutional settings as well as substantive policies are essential for achieving more systematic coordination of land use planning and economic development practices. “Importance of Agricultural Land Use Evaluation in Nigeria” by Abah Roland Clement (2013) deals with the importance of agricultural land uses evaluation in Nigeria. The study that was mainly conducted by using secondary data, finds that agricultural land use evaluation is an important precursor to planning sustainable agricultural programmes. The study has highlighted the importance of sustainable agricultural development to the global community and its relevance to the sustainable development of Nigeria. “Economics of Floriculture” by R. G. Desai (1st Edition 2004) is a book which is the outcome of a major research project sponsored by UGC New Delhi. It contains policies of Central and State government on floriculture development, supply and demand for flowers as well as export and import of floriculture products in the world. It shows the economic viability of floriculture units in selected cities of India specially Pune and Bangalore, based on primary data. It concludes that area specific location specific and cost effective technology, market niche and commensurable infrastructure are very important ingredients for development of floriculture in India. In the Report of the Working Group on ‘Agricultural Development in East and North East India’ for the formulation of the Tenth 5 year Plan (2002‐07) constituted by the
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Planning Commission of Government of India, it was stated that while the rate of growth of Indian agriculture has been slackening, the pace in east and northeast has been slower than in the rest of the country. The Green Revolution was largely limited to the north‐western part of India and has not found expression in the eastern and north‐ eastern states. In the Tenth Plan, therefore, a paradigm shift was needed in developmental planning to focus centrally on agricultural development in this region and the welfare and well‐ being of the farmer needs to lie at the core of strategies. For this, innovative participating planning, sensitive implementation and novel delivery systems are needed. The east and north‐east can become a key centre for production of various fruits, vegetables and flowers. The Technology Mission of Integrated Development of Horticulture in the north‐east was to be strengthened to achieve all the required linkages, including credit, to make horticulture and floriculture the basis of economic growth of the region with the potential to emerge as the major supplier of floriculture products. The potential needs to be tapped by bringing together the efforts of various agencies on market developments The Steering Committee of Agriculture and Allied Sectors for the Tenth 5 year Plan constituted by the Planning Commission under the chairmanship of Prof. M.S. Swaminathan reports that as per the National Agricultural Research Systems, the ICAR has provided a thrust in the farming system approach, diversification to floriculture and horticulture, post production technology and surplus management particularly in milk, fruit and flowers, training of scientists in sunrise centres, continuous effort to develop human resources, focused attention in far‐flung areas like the north‐east to give support to those dimensions of agriculture suitable to these areas namely floriculture for the north‐east. In an exclusive interview to Sanjay Jog in March 2006, the Union Agriculture Minister Sri Sharad Pawar was questioned that as value addition is key to improving the economic states of farmers, how he proposed to encourage value addition specially for setting up cold storage chains and other related support systems and whether the Centre planned any special dispensation for the north‐east states in this regard. The minister answered that the Agricultural Ministry was implementing a centrally sponsored Technology
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Mission on Horticulture in all N.E. states with a Tenth Plan outlay of Rs.585 crores. Under two mini‐missions relating to post harvest management, marketing and processing, assistance would be provided for the development of infrastructure for establishing cold storages, refrigerated vans etc. In 2012, Sharad Pawar while speaking at a function organized by the Rose Society in Pune said that the Union Government would divert its focus from food grain production to floriculture and horticulture as farmers in India had produced more than enough food grains to ensure food security. 17 “Market Gardening as a Livelihood Strategy: a Case Study of Rural‐Urban Migrants in Kapit, Sarawak, Malaysia” by Sarah Wong (2005) investigates the role market gardening plays in the livelihood strategies of rural‐urban migrants. It contributes to the literature on market gardening, livelihood strategies and migration by taking gardening as a highly flexible and adaptable mechanism for managing the rural‐urban transition among households with few labour alternatives. Such perspective elevates market gardening from simply being a land use category to being an active instrument in the management of rural‐urban migration processes. The expanding urban centre of Kapit, Sarawak, Malaysia is used as a case study of a rapidly expanding small town in a predominantly rural domain. Market gardening emerges as an important source of income for both individuals and households as rural‐urban migrants negotiate the transition between farming and urban settlement. Many rural‐urban migrants adopt market gardening or associated market selling as their first employment in urban centres. In contrast to market gardening in larger centres documented in the literature, the small isolated town of Kapit identifies market gardeners as typically middle‐aged, rural‐urban migrant women with limited education and employment skills other than subsistence farming. Market gardening and associated selling is adopted because they are unable to acquire alternative employment to support their household and children’s education. As such, market gardening in the urban setting is a logical extension of the woman’s role as the primary farmer in rural areas. Within the last two decades community development projects have been a popular tool aimed at reducing poverty in the rural settings of South Africa. Many such initiatives are implemented, based on the common understanding that community‐based
21 development helps poor rural communities in their striving towards integration in the national economy. The research objective of the report ‘Livelihood Strategies and Community Development Projects” (2011) by Sidsel, Katrine, Runaog Lykka was to identify the extent to which three specific community development projects affect the livelihood strategies of villagers in a community in the Eastern Cape Province. With the use of the Sustainable Livelihood Framework some of the main villagers’ livelihood assets are determined, these being education level, financial security, infrastructure and food security. Comparing the assets of project‐participants with non‐participants, it is seen that the participants are the most vulnerable. However, the community development projects have a general impact on the participants’ livelihoods creating options for the villagers to improve their livelihood strategies. In this context, it may be commented that floriculture, in our country, can be used as an effective tool for community development by assuring better living for the participants. (ii) Directly Related Studies : “Floriculture in India” is the first book of its kind, written by two eminent scientists Gurcharan Singh Randhava and A. Mukhopadhyay (1986). The book traces the history of gardening in India, discusses the scope and importance of the subject. It has been correctly pointed out that largely floriculture has been neglected by administrators and gets last priority in any process of planning or allotment of funds. Though we have at least one or more Agricultural Universities in each state, none of them can boast of having a professor of floriculture and landscape gardening. Though the Indian Council of Agricultural Research has done a lot for floriculture, one of its leading institutes, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, does not have a full‐fledged Division of floriculture. It has been established at the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore. The credit of giving floriculture a good start and consequently some status goes largely to the noted administrator‐cum‐scientist Dr. M. S. Randhawa which was carried further by another noted scientist Dr. B. P. Pal. Otherwise; floriculture would not have reached the present level of achievement and gained the status that it has today. Dr.Jayanta Madhab who is the chairman of N.E. Development Finance Corporation and former Director of Asian Development Bank, in his article “An Integrated Approach to
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Economic Development of the N.E. region” (Dec1998) suggests that Primary focus should be given to horticulture and floriculture. For lack of proper understanding of regional development and by merely following the Planning Commission’s directions, this zone has got their priorities wrong and spend much less on floriculture sector which has the highest growth potential. This calls for a congenial environment for the private sector to function for which again the Government must provide a stable, safe and secure environment. Unfortunately at this moment neither of these exists in the Eastern Himalayas. A.K.Dubey, K.Dhinesh Babu and D.S. Yadav’s “Status and Prospect of Horticulture in N.E.H. region” (2002) derives the conclusion that there is a need to create awareness and make the farmers receptive to the new technology through farmers participating in demonstration and training. Training facilities with respect to growing of horticulture crops and raising nurseries has to be made available as per requirements. So there is need for establishing a sound marketing system with forward and backward linkage so that vast potential of horticulture crops can be exploited through adoption of improved production‐technology. In the article “Potential role of commercial floriculture in economy of Kashmir” (2005), Fida Iqbal pointed out that agriculture involves two types of cultivation. One is for survival and subsistence like staple crops – wheat, rice, maize and another is production for commercial purposes called cash crops like sugarcane, spices and flowers. Floriculture is the latest addition to the commercial economy of the agricultural sector and is developing with all its potential. Floriculture sector can prove the biggest contributor for agro‐based economy of our state and can contribute a lot in creating job opportunities for our qualified human resource. “Marketing of Floriculture in NWFP”(2007) by Jahan Zeb, Zaheerullah Khan and Abdul Samad Khan was designed to find out the Marketing channels adopted by the growers and determine the performance of existing marketing system in five districts such as Peshawar, Mardan, Haripur, Kohat and Swabi of NWFP during May, 2005. Results accomplished indicate that almost all (95%) of the total respondents grow rose plants, jasmine, Bougainvillea and other ornamental plants on their nursery forms. The main marketing channels were the whole sale markets, retailers and direct consumers. It is
23 interesting that most of the respondents in the study area purchased plants from one another in the local market to make close contact with the consumers and to fulfill the market demand. “North‐East Flower Promise blooming business” by Sujit Chakraborty, published on 6th April,2007, states that The Indian Institute of Horticulture Research that conducts research to help achieve economic prosperity, has the potential of floriculture in north‐ east high on its agenda. According to IIHR, there are about 25000 species of orchids out of which 1300 species can be found in India. Of these, 800 are found in N.E. According to the Director of IIHR Mr.S.D. Shikhamany – the eight north‐east states have one of the most ideal climates for commercial cultivation of floriculture crops. So Sikkim has declared the Cymbidium orchid as a thrust crop. Bottlenecks in the form of steep air freight rates, distant location of potential markets etc. have to be overcome to match the growth in floriculture sector in N.E. India’s “Look East Policy” with the S.E. Asian countries like Thailand gives rise to immense opportunities for India to develop their trade and investment relations, using the N.E. as a primary focal point. S.N. Hegde in “Prospects of Floriculture Industry in Arunachal Pradesh and other parts of N.E. India with special reference to Orchids” (CAB Abstracts) discusses the economic potential of an orchid‐based floriculture industry in the above‐mentioned area. A cost benefit analysis of ornamental orchid production in the region is given. Khagendramani Pradhan’s “Horticulture, Floriculture Boom in N.E.” (July‐2008) highlights how converting weakness into strength and success is the motto through which the Technology Mission on Horticulture is vying to attain self‐sufficiency. He suggests a paradigm shift from traditional method of farming both for personal and economic sustenance thereby reducing dependency on other states. Subrata Kumar Ray in “Progress, Problems and Prospects of Floriculture: An Economic Analysis with special reference to West Bengal” (2003) expresses views that flower is an important cash‐crop in India. Diversification in favour of horticultural crops, say flowers is more rational. Floriculture has occupied a significant position in the agricultural economy of the country as an important source of employment and income for the farming families, particularly the small and marginal ones, in the perspective of low and
24 declining land‐man ratio and the consequent proliferation of marginal farmers. All floral products having a high demand both in the internal market and abroad can be produced in some or the other parts of India. Focusing on the district level scenario in West Bengal in1987‐88, it is observed that Medinipur has the largest contribution in the production of flowers in the State. Panskura I and II have played a significant role in the floriculture of Medinipur (East) district during 1986‐87 to 1997‐98. The field level study reveals the observations that the smaller size classes of landholdings have larger percentage of area under floriculture; farms enjoying credit facilities have used larger share of their land for floriculture; larger expansion of flower cultivation has generated larger scope of employment of labour, particularly, female and child labour; larger share of area under floriculture can increase the profitability , farms with lower resource‐base shift their land largely to flower cultivation due to higher benefit‐cost ratio, higher employment opportunities of female and child labour; the gross income from floriculture constitutes significant percentage of total family income and the flower cultivators live above poverty line. There is a tremendous potentiality of floriculture in India where land and labour are cheap relative to the European countries. Expansion of floriculture must be designed as a programme for the alleviation of poverty and unemployment, specially female unemployment i.e. it may be thought as a development programme for the weaker sections and/or classes of the society say female and small marginal farmers. “Commercial Floriculture Industry in India: Status and Prospects” by Abhijit Shelke (2010) discusses the status of Hi‐tech floriculture industry in India. The present status of commercial floriculture industry is showcased. Along with this, the problems and prospects of the industry are highlighted. The floriculture industry is characterized by traditional as well as modern cut flowers. The cut flower industry is rapidly growing worldwide. While this industry is dominated by selected European countries as well as US and Japan, the production base is shifting from these countries to low cost countries like Kenya, Colombia, India and China. While much needs to be done, Indian floriculture industry has lot of potential of growth. The consumption within India is increasing with changing socio economic structure as well as effects of globalization. At the same time, India is preparing itself to take an increasing role in the world trade of floriculture,
25 which at present is miniscule. The government has recognized the importance of this industry and hence given a special focus to this industry. The National Horticulture Mission is an endeavour of the government to promote holistic development of floriculture and with an integrated approach towards cluster development. Ananya Sahu, Soumendu Chatterjee and Ashis Kr. Paul in “Growth of Floriculture and its Role in Promoting Socio‐Economic Status of Floriculturists of Panskura and Kolaghat Blocks, Purba Medinipur” (2011) opined that Floriculture has become a highly specialized and intensive form of agriculture in Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal. Two Blocks, namely Panskura I and Kolaghat (Formerly Panskura II), have emerged as important flower growing regions of the district. During the past few decades growth of floriculture in this region has assumed national importance in terms of increase in production and variety, thus occupying a lion’s share of the flower market of West Bengal and India as well. This has a tremendous bearing on the socio economy of the region and has opened a new avenue towards economic prosperity of the region. This paper deals basically with the pattern of growth of floriculture in this region since 1990 and tries to assess its economic impact on education, use of consumer goods, power of access to basic facilities etc. among the floriculturists. It explores the Block level species wise time series production data of the flowers and analyses the electrification, irrigation, transport facilities of the floriculturists. Finally the study reveals that per capita income has increased by 215.67 percentage in respect to 1990 year. It also emphasizes that though floriculture has immense potentialities for economic prosperity of the region but problems like lack of cold storage, market facilities, sufficient road, transport facility etc. are the major hindrances in floricultural activities. Govindasamy Agoramoorthy and Minna J. Hsu in “Impact of floriculture development enhances livelihood of India’s rural women”(2012) indicate that India’s rural women are involved in various types of work and contribute considerably to the economy. However, much of their work is not systematically accounted in the official statistics. India’s governmental and non‐governmental data collection agencies admit that there is an under estimation of tribal women’s contribution as rural workers. This study describes in detail a research project that focuses on the indicators for socioeconomic development in the least developed rural villages by examining the impact of
26 floriculture on the lives of impoverished tribal women who inhabit the harsh drylands of western India. Dr. Sanjit Kumar Das in “Commercial Prospects of Floriculture: A Study on Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal” (2012) explains how the importance of floriculture, which is a lucrative line of business, is ever increasing. In addition to the traditional lines of business, floriculture is venturing into some value added lines such as bouquets, floral baskets, pot‐pouri etc. It is one of the main‐stream commercial activities in some parts of West Bengal. Within the state of West Bengal, Purba Medinipur and Nadia districts are the chief producers of flowers. In this study, the commercial prospects of floriculture in the Purba Medinipur District have been evaluated. Flower producers in this area are suffering some problems in the form of scarcity of healthy planting materials, timely replacement, and problem of transportation; adequate and timely credit facilities etc. Despite lack of knowledge on modern floricultural production techniques, difficulty in obtaining the latest varieties and the lack of infrastructure, the industry is continuously attracting new entrants. Demand for cut flowers is growing tremendously as more and more people are becoming aware of the beauty of flowers as decorative items. Yielding high return from a small area is improving the quality of life of farmers of this locality. “Floriculture Concentration Zone of Nadia District, West Bengal” by Nirmal Kumar Biswas (2013) is an attempt to show the main flower concentration zone of Nadia District and to point out the main causes of development and backwardness of this field. Flower cultivation in Nadia District is an important field of modern agriculture. It is not the main crop of this district but it has great importance in agricultural economy. In this district, floriculture is substituting other crops gradually and its importance is increasing day by day. “Production and Marketing of Cut flower (Rose and Gerbera) in Hosur Taluk” by Dr. S. Sudhagar (2013) focuses on Hi‐Tech floriculture in Hosur. It has been pointed out that floriculture is a fast emerging and highly competitive industry. With the continuous introduction of new cultivators and new crops, cultural techniques are changing and hence new products are developing. Ornamental crop culture technology is improving with the availability of equipment and there is a sea change in the trend of consumers.
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A new generation of growers is coming forward to employ modern technology for maximizing production and offer quality produce for consumer acceptability, thus fetching a better price. It has emerged as a lucrative profession with much higher potential for returns compared to other agri‐horticultural crops. The study estimates the production costs, returns and profitability of high‐tech floriculture in Hosur, the marketing pattern of cut flowers by farmers, documents the production and marketing constraints and problems encountered by high‐tech floriculture units in Hosur. “Floriculture In Chapra Village In Ranaghat‐II Block, Nadia District, West Bengal” by Nirmal Kumar Biswas (2013) states that for proper and balanced development in the agricultural sector, cultivation of those crops are needed which have more economic value. In this respect flower cultivation is more important. In Chapra village in Ranaghat‐II block, Nadia district, West Bengal, flower is the first ranking crop. In respect of flower cultivation crop productivity Index (Enyedi, 1964) and Crop Yield Index (Jasbir Singh, 1976) has been calculated of different varieties of flowers for 2000‐2001 and 2011‐2012 crop calendar years. Both index values have increased remarkably in 2011‐ 2012 respect of 2000‐2001 crop calendar year. Area of flower culture has increased. Flower based industries are developing gradually. Irrigation facilities, knowledge banking, training opportunities, government subsidies, favourable agro‐ecological environment is responsible for this development of floriculture in Chapra village. Heidi C. Wernett, in the article “Potential of Commercial Floriculture in Asia: Opportunities for Cut Flower Development” (1998) observed that if sufficient attention and support were given to attaining the goal of reliably producing high quality cut flower product in consistent quantities among Asian countries, then it would be reasonable to expect that the Asian flower industry would soon overtake any other region’s flower industry, including the European flower industry, in production. Moreover, given the rapidly increasing rate of spending among Asian consumers for cut flowers, it is also reasonable to expect that the flower industry will soon surpass consumption rates for cut flowers compared to that of other regions. “Multi‐product line in Floriculture‐ Indian scenario” deals with research on diversification of crops along with post‐harvest management. It tells us how during the last 2‐3 decades, appreciation of the potential of commercial floriculture has resulted in
28 the blossoming of this field into a viable agri‐business option. Among the major flower growing areas in India, almost all are under open field cultivation. Protected cultivation has been taken up in the recent years only for production of cut flowers for exports. It may be mentioned here that in India, research recognizing the potential for low cost production for export, in view of cheap land, labour and other local inputs, several export oriented units are being set up in the country. They are in clusters around Pune (Maharashtra) in the west, Bangalore (Karnataka) and Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh) in the south, Delhi in the north. Technical collaborations with countries advanced in the floriculture field have come up namely K.F. Bioplants in Pune. But no such examples can be cited in the area under the eastern Himalayas. Research efforts need to pay more attention to standardizing the production technology under controlled environment, tissue culture laboratories, postharvest management, development of location specific package of practices for traditional flowers, value addition to traditional flower for marketing etc. An encouraging aspect in this regard is the quantum jump witnessed in production and trade of floriculture products in India which is due to efforts of sound research system, focused attention of government coupled with entry of innovative entrepreneurs. Although traditional flowers have predominated, production of flowers under greenhouses with international quality standard has set in. ‘Amenity Horticulture, Bio‐Technology and Post‐Harvest Technology’ (2006) by S.K. Bhattacharjee highlights how Floriculture helps in enriching the quality of life and development of our society through environmental improvement and purposeful use of socially and ecologically responsive plants in our landscape. The changing scenario in international trade in ornamental crops which provide unlimited export potentialities demands perfection in post‐harvest technology to offer quality plant products to the people around the world all the year round. “Thrust on developing floriculture as a source of export earning” was an article by Nazia Ansar Khan published in the ‘Financial Express’ on 27th February, 2012 where it was stated that the growing demand of cut flowers in the export market required a concerted effort of the government to develop floriculture on scientific lines as it is not only a symbol of purity and beauty but also a potential revenue earner.
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Balaram Jakhar commented, as reported by the Hindustan Times on 17th April, 2013, that floriculture was a good source of enhancing livelihood. He stressed on the need to make floriculture the symbol of economic advantage of the country. The Ministry of Economic Development has initiated many livelihood development programmes to uplift the living conditions of poor families – floriculture development programme being one of them. “Cut Flower Production: A Source of Incremental Income for the Marginal Farmers of the State of West Bengal in India” by Ruma Bhattacharya (2013) measures and compares the profitability of investments made by the small and marginal farmers of the state of West Bengal in floriculture shifting from the traditional cultivation of paddy. A comparison of IRR is made to establish the fact that cultivation of flowers yield higher returns to farmers whose land size is so small that viability of paddy cultivation is raising a question mark. A detailed study of the price behaviour of the flower crop has been carried out in which the factors leading to the volatility of the price and the dispersion of the range have also been discussed. Finally the incremental incomes of the farmers have been calculated with the help of imputed income from paddy cultivation and the reported income from the selected flowers. The study shows that the farmers stand gainers if they opt for flower cultivation. IMARC’s new report “Indian Floriculture Market Report & Forecast: 2012‐2017” (2013) provides an analytical and statistical insight into the Indian floriculture market. The research study serves as an exceptional tool to understand the drivers, market size, area under cultivation, structure, production, competitive landscape and the outlook of the floriculture market till 2017‐18. (iii) Empirical Research: ‘Sustainable International Networks In The Flower Industry’‐ a publication of the International Society for Horticultural Science in 2005 states that market access to Western European markets for developing countries is a key issue in the 2004‐2007 policy programme ’Vital and Together’ of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. Netherlands helps developing countries to improve their market performance by means of public‐private partnerships, capacity building and provision of access to Western markets. The aim is to stimulate sustainable agricultural
30 development and to decrease poverty in developing countries. This report describes theoretical approaches to ensure sustainable development of Floriculture in developing countries. Market growth and competitive advantage are used as indicators for sustainability. The report also tests the empirical findings against the theoretical approaches. The conclusion is directed to the usefulness of theoretical approaches for analyzing the sustainable development of Floriculture in developing countries. The question of the impact of institutions on the variation in market performances among internationally oriented flower industry has been addressed by Jo H.M. Wijnands, Jos Bijman and Ruud B.M. Huirne in ‘Impact of Institutions on the Performance of the flower industry in Developing Countries’. In past decades, a number of developing countries experienced a rapid growth in their exports of highly perishable horticultural products to developed high‐income countries. One example is the export of flowers from African countries to Europe. But the development of flower industry is unbalanced‐ some countries experience a prosperous export growth while others have a mediocre growth or even show a decline. The empirical findings show a strong correlation between both the level and growth of per capita GDP and institutions, in line with most empirical studies on the impact of institutions. Surprisingly, no relation between growth of flower export and the same prevailing institutions are found. For diversification in agriculture, one of the areas that have emerged as a fast‐growing sector recently in West Bengal is that of Floriculture. In an attempt to examine empirically the relative efficiency between commercial floriculture and its competing main field crops like paddy, jute potato etc. the paper ‘Flower Farming and Flower Marketing in West Bengal: a Study of Efficiency and sustainability’ (2005) by Debnarayan Sarkar and Sanjukta Chakravorty, observes that the economic efficiency related to both individual flower crop farming and mixed crop farming of all categories, maintain high economic efficiency for farms provided that selection of crops are made properly. While estimating the efficiency of flower marketing system, this paper does not support that the flower market in alluvial zone of West Bengal is efficient in nature, but, in general, marketing efficiency decreases with the increase in number of market intermediaries in a marketing channel.
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The book “Crop Diversification: Findings from a Field Research Programme” (1995) by M.A.S. Mandal and S.C. Dutta is the outcome of an elaborate research designed to identify the potentials for and constraints to adopting crop diversification in a basically rice‐growing area..This study shows that many cropping patterns incorporating high value horticultural crops are very profitable, but the farmers need extension advice and training on improved production, pest management and irrigation practices that are required for the newly introduced crops. The availability of cash, quality seed and plant protection measures are also needed for promoting crop diversification. The findings and results of the study by Emmanuel Awuor and M.M.Vosloo in ‘A Case of the Floriculture Industry in Kenya’ (2011) point at financing key success factors, country‐specific benefits, R & D as positively influencing the performance of floriculture industry in Kenya. The paper blends quantitative and qualitative research techniques to develop a conceptual for managing supply networks for simultaneous optimization. “Adoption of Commercial Cut Flower Production Technology in Meerut” (2010) by B.K. Singh, Rakesh E.S., V.P.S. Yadav and D.K. Singh highlights the fact that in India the area under cultivation of different flowers is 103,000 ha. About 99 per cent of the flowers are cultivated in open condition and only 1 per cent under greenhouse condition. Postharvest management and value addition to cut flowers can enhance prices up to 5‐ 10 times. Gladiolus and tuberose, two very popular cut flower crops in India, are grown mainly in the temperate parts of the country. The study was conducted in Meerut and Ghaziabad districts of Uttar Pradesh. The majority of the cut flower cultivators were found to have high (31.3 per cent), very high (28.8per cent) and medium (20 per cent) level of knowledge of cut flower cultivation technology. Majority of the respondents (80 %) were found to possess high to medium adoption in gladiolus production technology whereas80 percent tuberose cultivators were found to possess medium to high adoption. In case of gladiolus, the adoption of commercial cut flower cultivation technology was found to be positively and significantly correlated with their education, social participation, and experience in flower cultivation, extension agency contact and mass media exposure. The adoption of commercial tuberose cultivation technology was found to be positively and significantly correlated with their education and mass media
32 exposure, land holding and social participation, caste, family size, occupation, extension contact, economic motivation, risk orientation and experience in flower cultivation. The recent past has witnessed a gradual development of floriculture worldwide. It has come to occupy a prominent position in the field of diversification in agriculture and rural development, particularly in the developing countries, India being one of them. India has been blessed with a favourable agro‐climatic condition on different regions of the country to facilitate successful operation of floriculture as a major organized and scientific occupation that can positively contribute to national income and India’s foreign exchange earnings. Liberalization and growth‐oriented targets of the Five Year Plans have encouraged the spread of floriculture in India. However, despite the prospects of India to become one of the big players in the global floriculture market, presently her share in the in the world floriculture trade is negligible. The global floriculture industry is growing comparatively at a faster rate than in India. There is need to focus both on the international and domestic market to bridge the demand and supply gap. In the domestic sphere, floriculture seems to have flourished regionally, mostly in pockets like Pune and Bangalore. Prospects of floriculture in the North‐east has been widely accepted and commented upon but the potential in the area is yet to be optimally utilized. Despite favourable climate and terrain, the Eastern Himalayas have failed to enjoy the benefits of floriculture. Particularly in West Bengal, few areas like Nadia and Medinipur for open field floriculture and hills of Darjeeling and Mirik are popular in cultivation of orchids. It is imperative to focus on new areas in West Bengal – North Bengal for example, where a detailed and well planned research needs to be implemented to facilitate and highlight the concept of Flori Business in the area. 1.4: Research Gaps A commendable change in the economic scenario in India can be brought about by showcasing the prospects of floriculture in areas conducive for carrying out such cultivation. In our country selected cities like Pune and Bangalore that hog the limelight in floriculture, are blessed with proper infrastructure which is woefully absent in the east and north‐east. In India, research has mainly been conducted on open field
33 cultivated flowers and hardly on greenhouse cultivation and more research on varieties of cut flowers as per international trends is desirable. It is apparent that in the Eastern and North‐eastern Himalayas, there is need to convert a portion of open field cultivation such as “Jhoom Cultivation” to protective cultivation under greenhouses to have round the year production to achieve self‐sufficiency. Stress is to be given on infrastructure‐building, logistical support, cold chain, perishable cargo complexes and organized marketing. Research in India on floriculture has mostly been conducted in the botanical perspective of conducive soil and climate, manures and fertilizers, plant propagation, seed production etc. Less attention has been given on highlighting the economic advantage of practicing hi‐tech commercial floriculture. Current research needs to focus on how commercial floriculture can prove to be a lucrative profession even in the Eastern and North‐eastern Himalayas, as in certain other areas in India, after overcoming the existing bottlenecks that prevail here. 1.5: Objectives 1. To highlight floriculture as a way to economic development of a locality. 2. To state the problems faced by commercial floriculture in the Eastern and North‐ eastern Himalayas. 3. To suggest suitable measures to counter the hurdles ailing floriculture. 4. To point out the commercial viability of a floriculture unit. 5. To make a cost benefit analysis of commercial floriculture. 6. To educate the unskilled farmer about the advantages of floriculture and encourage him to start his own cultivation. 7. To study the floriculture models of the North East and implement them in sub‐ Himalayan region. 1.6 : Research Questions 1. Why India, particularly the area under the Eastern and North Eastern Himalayas, despite favourable climate and resources, is unable to exploit floriculture desirably? 2. Why is the farmer not able to achieve the desired level of economic prosperity? 3. In which way, after the initial push by the government, is the farmer supposed to proceed on his own in the future?
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4. How floriculture can be made more lucrative to inspire more and more investors and growers to venture in this field? 5. How the problem of logistics and connectivity to other parts of the country can be tackled? 6. How can the problem of cold chains and marketing be solved? 7. Why is there not adequate Public‐Private Participation in floriculture in this region? 8. Why is this area lagging behind other areas flourishing well in floriculture? 9. What further steps can be taken to encourage floriculture in this area? 1.7 : Hypothesis 1. Availability of natural resources, local inputs along with cheap labour has enabled India to achieve phenomenal success in floriculture. 2. Due to various bottlenecks, India failed to achieve the goal of becoming a global leader in floriculture. 3. The farmer needs to overcome the sense of total dependence on the Government and become self‐sufficient. 4. The farmer has not been able to achieve the desired level of economic prosperity. 5. The facilities and incentives are not being distributed equally and not reaching the grass‐root level. 6. Rainwater harvesting technologies are yet to be implemented in a systematic manner. 7. Floriculture can be used as an effective tool for employment generation. 8. The East and North‐East Himalayas are yet to be explored effectively and still have a lot to contribute to floriculture in India. 9. Floriculture has assumed a definite commercial status resulting in its blossoming into a viable Agri‐Business option. 10. Floriculture can prove to be a lucrative profession in the East and North‐east Himalayas as well.
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1.8: Methodology and Data Collection The states of Meghalaya and Nagaland were purposively chosen as the area of study, the reason being that these states are fast emerging as commercial floriculture hubs in the region of our interest. Hi‐tech cultivation of flowers under greenhouse conditions, updated by modern technology, is concentrated in these areas and contributing immensely in uplifting the income levels and standard of living of the farmers involved in floriculture and thereby boosting the local economy directly. The favourable agro‐ climatic environment here also acts as a blessing for cut flower cultivation which is essentially a biological production system, in contrary to a more mechanical one. To understand the grass‐root reality in the field of commercial floriculture, a field study in the areas of Mairang in West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya; Jowai in Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur in Nagaland was undertaken. A one to one interaction with farmers of a particular locality practising floriculture as well as collection of data from journals, websites, respective departments etc. came in handy. The study is based on both primary and secondary data. Secondary data was collected from publications of Operational Guidelines of Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH), Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India; Regional Offices of National Horticulture Board (NHB) and Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) at Kolkata and Guwahati; Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia; Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Barapani, Meghalaya; Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), Medziphema, Dimapur; Schemes from Technology Mission, Mini Missions, NCPAH (National Committee on Plasticulture Applications in Horticulture), State Policies etc. Primary data was collected through in‐depth interview and field survey. Structured and semi‐structured interview schedules were prepared keeping in mind the scope and objective of the study. The sampling procedure conducted in the present study consisted of two main stages. Firstly, villages of Jowai, Mairang and Dimapur were selected given their specialised production of Gerbera, Carnation and Orchids respectively. Secondly, farmers from these villages were selected by using simple random sampling technique. Considering the common factor of production of cut flowers under greenhouse technology, Jowai was selected for Gerbera, Mairang for
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Carnation and Dimapur for orchids. Farmers were randomly selected from the above areas depending upon the Spokes (small growers) available. Surveys were conducted on 7.7.15 at Mairang, on 28.8.15 at Jowai and 2.9.15 at Dimapur. Among a total number of 480 beneficiaries, around 100 farmers from each village were interrogated. These farmers were all selected by the Government as per the requirement of the Government Scheme to be implemented and therefore included only those who fulfilled the criteria of possessing sufficient land, power, water supply etc. As not many could satisfy the conditions necessary for selection, the sample size automatically became limited. Survey was based on a structured questionnaire, with the assistance of a local interpreter, the responses of which were tabulated to elicit information. Prior to the interview, the respondents were made to understand clearly the objective of the study in hope of better cooperation and more reliable data. Nevertheless, difficulties were faced in this sphere as the people concerned were often not willing to divulge with the local knowledge and benefits of commercial floriculture in the fear that their valuable information could be hijacked to other areas. Primary sources of data also comprised of the village headman, farmer groups or cooperatives or associations, District Horticulture Officers, Hub Managers etc. Such officials were the nodal officers of the area under survey. Simple statistical tools have been used to explain and analyse the data obtained from the survey. A tabular presentation has been made to make a cost analysis with the help of Fixed Establishment Cost, Recurring Costs and returns from flower sales under greenhouse technology. Total cost is classified into Fixed Cost and Variable Cost. Fixed Cost includes the cost of greenhouse, drip irrigation, planting materials, overtime bed preparation, DG set etc. Cost of all infrastructure falls under the components of Fixed Cost. The annual fixed cost of establishment includes all the material cost and is taken for the first year only. No depreciation cost has been taken into account as it is a one‐ time grant from the Government. Variable Cost consists of the cost of daily use of pesticides, fertilizers, power, manpower, packaging and transportation. The cost of fertilizers and pesticides that have been taken into account are those that have been actually paid by the farmer. Power required for operating irrigation systems was taken on a quarterly basis and then added up. Manpower requirements included labour for
37 operation of drip systems, greenhouse management, maintenance of plants, harvesting and packing of flowers. In cases where labour involved were mostly family members of the farmers, the total wages was calculated by imputing the wage payable to the family labour at the prevailing wage rate. In transportation cost the cost for transporting packed flowers to the market has been considered. Interest on working capital has been calculated at 10% per annum and depending on the duration of the crop. We have estimated Gross Return for every crop with the help of following formulae‐ Gross Income = Number of Stems per plant per year X Number of Plants X Average Rate per Year. Net Income = Gross Income – Total Expenditure
1.9: Chapterisation Chapter I: Introduction Floriculture in India in the past and in the present, Floriculture in Eastern and North Eastern Himalayas in the backdrop of the national scenario, Review of Literature, Research Gaps, Objectives, Research Questions, Hypothesis, Methodology and Data Collection, Limitation of the Study. Chapter II: Growth of Floriculture in East and North‐East Himalayas Arguments for the area chosen for the study, Special characteristic features of the region, Types of flowers chosen and their technique of cultivation, Floriculture as an alternative source of livelihood in the region. Chapter III: Problems of Floriculture in East and North‐East Himalayas Social background vs modern attitude towards floriculture, Credit Gap, Logistic Gap, Communication gap between the Government and the farmers, Agronomy support in cultivation of cut flowers. Chapter IV: Marketing Aspect of Floriculture Role of middlemen in marketing floricultural produce, Importance of cold chain in post‐ harvest management, Structure of market for floriculture in the region, Value addition and its relevance and relation to floriculture.
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Chapter V: Cost Benefit Analysis An assessment of the cost effectiveness of protected cultivation of flowers of different variety under polyhouses of different sizes. Chapter VI: Role of Government in developing Floriculture Schemes available at present, Promotion of Joint Venture for the development of floriculture, Lacuna in implementation of Government schemes. Chapter VII: Prospects of Floriculture Centre of Excellence for production of Gerbera cut flowers at Thadlaskein Horti‐Hub in Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya; Centre of Excellence for production of Carnation cut flowers at Mairang Horti‐Hub in West Khasi hills, Meghalaya; Centre of Excellence for production of Anthurium cut flowers at Dimapur Horti‐Hub in Nagaland; Present status and future prospects of floriculture in West Bengal. Chapter VIII: Conclusion & Suggestions Deductions and Recommendations
1.10: Limitation of the Study This overview of the problems and prospects of floriculture in selected regions of East and Northeast Himalayas concentrates only on the production of Gerbera, Carnation, Anthurium and Dendrobium cut flowers of the districts of Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, Dimapur in Nagaland and sections of West Bengal. Other cut flowers like Venda, Dutch Rose, Cymbidium etc and loose flowers like marigold and tuberose may also be produced in these areas but the focus of the study is to try to correlate the role of floriculture business in the above‐mentioned districts with the upliftment of its level of economic welfare. Notwithstanding the restrictive approaches, the research work attempts to comprehensively highlight the prevailing strengths and weaknesses of cut flower production in East and Northeast Himalayas, on the basis of which a way ahead may be planned, thus adding substantial value to future scope of work.
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NOTES and REFERENCES:
1. Randhava G.S, Mukhopadhyay A, Floriculture in India, Allied Publishers, 2010. 2. Overview of Floriculture sector : (CH‐2) , www.shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in 3. Floriculture‐India.blogspot.com, SEPT 24, 2008. 4. Ibid 5. Muthukumaran K, ‘Indian Floriculture Industry: Opportunities and Challenges’, www.cab.org.in. 6. Research Report: “Floriculture in Karnataka: Performance, Problems and Prospects” by P Thippaiah under Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Unit of the Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore, 2005. 7. Ninama A.P., Sipai S.A., Khadayata K.G., Patel P.C., “Floriculture in India: Problems and prospects”, online published on 9 December 2016. 8. Mathur Professor Rossy and Pachpande Dr. Priti, “Floriculture – Prospects and Opportunities”, ASM’s International E‐Journal of Research in Management and IT, 2013. 9. EXIM Bank: Research Brief, “Floriculture – A Sector Study”, November 2009. 10. www.apeda.gov.in 11. Protected cultivation practices can be defined as a cropping technique wherein the microclimate surrounding the plant body is controlled partially or fully as per the requirement of the species of crop grown, during their period of growth. Production of cut flower crops under protected conditions can increase productivity by 3‐5 folds over open field cultivation of these crops under varied agroclimatic conditions of the country. 12. EXIM Bank: Research Brief, Op. cit. 13. Sunrise industry is one that is new or relatively new, is growing fast and is expected to become important in the future. 14. EXIM Bank: Research Brief, Op. cit 15. Floriculture Development in North‐East and Himalayan States by Gorakh Singh, Horticulture Commissioner, Dept. Of Agriculture and Co‐operation, Ministry of Agriculture, New Delhi. 16. Ibid 17. Radheshyam Jadhav, Times of India, September 11, 2012.
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Chapter II : Growth of Floriculture in East and North‐East Himalayas 2.1 Arguments for the area chosen for the study A breakthrough in agricultural production and productivity in our country was ushered in by the Green Revolution in the mid‐1960s. It was a new agricultural strategy of growth characterized by the use of high yield variety (HYV) seeds, fertilizers, irrigation facilities etc. It was an improved package programme comprising not only of extension of irrigation, use of fertilizers and introduction of HYV seeds, but also of plant protection, soil improvement and use of better agricultural practices. According to the Report of the Working Group on ‘Agricultural Development in East and North‐East India’ for the formulation of the Tenth Five Year Plan (2002‐2007) constituted by the Planning Commission of the Government of India1, the Green Revolution that was instrumental in bringing about a remarkable progress in agriculture, had a profound impact in the North‐Western part of India but failed to find adequate expression in the East and Northeast states. In terms of development, the East and Northeast states may be scaled as among the most backward in the country. Thus with the aim to improve the quality of life of all citizens through the planning process, it is only natural that the East and Northeast regions demand foremost attention. Key issue of agriculture and allied sector if carefully addressed, a breakthrough in the human development graph of these regions can be successfully achieved. Regions of the East and Northeast Himalayas are endowed with rich natural resources, congenial climate, sufficient land, cheap labour and other inherent strengths that make these areas extremely conducive to floriculture. Large variety of flowers can be grown round the year at protected environments at low cost leading to increased availability of varieties of good quality flowers to consumers at affordable prices. Therefore, the government has in the recent years recognized floriculture as an extreme focus segment for development initiatives. Floriculture has proved to be a prosperous occupation in different regions of India where it has been pursued professionally. In regions of East and North‐eastern Himalayas, however, floriculture as a profession is at a nascent stage. Economic upliftment of a community with the help of the existing inputs has proved to be
41 inadequate in these areas. New avenues like floriculture can offer an added impetus in this regard which is being held back by certain factors that need to be addressed to ensure economic welfare. With the recommendation of National Research Centre for Orchid (NRCO), APEDA has suggested North East states to emphasize on floriculture for a vibrant rural economy. NRCO has identified the region as a potential area for development of floriculture in view of the geo‐climatic condition and opined that Cymbidium orchid of Sikkim, Anthurium of Mizoram and Nagaland, Gladiolus, Marigold and Chrysanthemum of Tripura are the thrust flowers.2 APEDA sanctioned Rs.7.65 crores exclusively for floriculture in North‐east states and asked the state governments to chalk out a master plan for it. ‘The region offers good scope for cultivation of a wide variety of flowers because of its diversities in topography, congenial agro‐climatic conditions coupled with fertile soil and well‐ distributed rainfall which ensure year‐round production of tropical and sub‐tropical flowers,’ opined APEDA Chairman Mr. Pravin Gupta. Senior Agronomist of ICAR, Narendra Pratap Singh commented that since the region is Christian and Hindu dominated, who traditionally use flowers for religious and other activities, there is a gap between demand and supply of flowers in the domestic markets while the UAE, the UK and Japan have good demand of Northeast orchids and flowers.3 The Northeast can be viewed as a prospective commercial hub. It has borders with China in the north, Bangladesh in southwest, Bhutan in northwest and Myanmar in east. Thus, it can turn out to be a hub of international trade and commerce. Unlike the rest of India, Northeast India has an added demographic advantage in the sense that it occupies 7.8% of the country’s total land space but has a population of 3.8crore i.e. 3.73% of the population. There is also a huge untapped emerging market which may prove to be of interest to large domestic and international investors. Northeast India also offers huge opportunities in sectors of strategic importance like energy and infrastructure, oil, natural gas, agro, food processing, horticulture, floriculture, IT, cement, defence etc. All northeast states have distinct advantages and provide immense economic and trade opportunities to domestic and international corporates.
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The huge complimentarily arising out of India’s ‘Look East’ Policy and our Southeast Asia focus and the ‘Look West’ Policy of Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, gives rise to immense opportunities for India and ASEAN countries to develop their trade and investment relations, using the Northeast as a primary focal point. Despite the advantages, the Northeast has not grown at par with the rest of the country and the region’s potential has not been exploited adequately. India enjoys a position of strategic advantage to supply her produce easily to major world markets. She is conveniently located in the centre of two growing markets‐ the European and the Southeast Asian. She is also closer to the developing market of east Europe as compared to central and South African nations. She can cleverly make use of her proximity to the Southeast Asian market of namely Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong on the one side and growing market of the rich Gulf states, coupled with the fact that no major production area of flowers exist in the zone and emerge as a dominant supplier of flowers worldwide. In this respect, areas of East and Northeast Himalayas can prove to be a major contributor in increasing the total production of flowers in the country.
2.2: Special Characteristic features of this region The states of Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh can roughly be taken to cover the East and Northeast Himalayas. These areas, being a storehouse of exotic flora and enjoying congenial climate, harbour immense prospects in the growth and development of floriculture in India. Among them, the states of Meghalaya, Nagaland and Sikkim have already achieved phenomenal success in the spread of floriculture that has infused positive changes, locally as well as nationally, leading to economic upliftment on the whole. So, let us now discuss, in details, about the characteristic features of the states of Meghalaya and Nagaland since they play such a prominent role in highlighting the prospects of floriculture in our country. MEGHALAYA Introduction: Tucked away in the hills of eastern sub‐Himalayas is Meghalaya, one of the most beautiful States in the country. Nature has blessed her with abundant rainfall, sun‐
43 shine, virgin forests, high plateaus, tumbling waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, meandering streamlets and above all with sturdy, intelligent and hospitable people. Emergence of Meghalaya as an Autonomous State on 2nd April 1970 and as a full‐ fledged State on 21st January 1972 marked the beginning of a new era of the geo‐ political history of North Eastern India. It also marked the triumph of peaceful democratic negotiations, mutual understanding and victory over violence and intrigue. The state of Meghalaya is situated in the northeast region of India, and extends between latitude 20°1'N ‐ 26°5'N and longitude 85°49'E ‐ 92°52'E. It extends for about 300 kilometres in length and about 100 kilometres in breadth. It is bounded on the north by Goalpara, Kamrup and Nowgong districts, on the east by Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills districts, all of Assam, and on the south and west by Bangladesh. Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is located at an altitude of 1496 metres above sea level. Shillong, which was made Assam's capital in 1874, remained so till January 1972, following the formation of Meghalaya. The capital city derives its name from the manifestation of the creator called Shillong. Meghalaya is subject to vagaries of the monsoon. The climate varies with altitude. The climate of Khasi and Jaintia Hills is uniquely pleasant and bracing. It is neither too warm in summer nor too cold in winter, but over the plains of Garo Hills, the climate is warm and humid, except in winter. The Meghalayan sky seldom remains free of clouds. The average annual rainfall is about 2600 mm over western Meghalaya, between 2500 to 3000 mm over northern Meghalaya and about 4000 mm over south‐eastern Meghalaya. There is a great variation of rainfall over central and southern Meghalaya. At Sohra (Cherrapunjee), the average annual rainfall is as high as 12000 millimetres, but Shillong located at a distance of about fifty kilometres from Sohra receives an average of 2200 mm of rainfall annually. The temperature range is approximately 2 degree centigrade to 36 degree centigrade depending upon the altitude ranging between 300 meters above mean sea level (MSL) to 2000 meters above MSL. Meghalaya is amongst the highest rainfall areas in the world with an annual average rainfall of 11,000 mm during the period of 1980‐91, predominantly mountainous, lying between the Brahmaputra valley in the North and the Surma valley (Bangladesh) in the South.
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The economy of Meghalaya is basically agrarian as it is rural based with Agriculture playing a predominant role in the state's economy. Since, 81% of the state's population depends on Agriculture, employment and income generation also depends on Agricultural developmental activities to a great extent. The State is yet to touch the National Level in economic and agricultural growth rate even after attaining full statehood more than forty three years ago. The State is slowly and steadily progressing inspite of the numerous constraints and limiting factors. Practice of improved and modern methods of Agriculture by the farmers, using of Chemical fertilizers, Plant protection measures and introduction of High Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds of Paddy, Wheat, Maize etc has contributed to the increase in production of food grains. Mechanization of Agriculture has gone up to some extent. Progressive farmers are able to produce more and in turn, they supply seeds to the Department for distribution to small and marginal farmers. As per Census of 2001, though, 81% of the population depends on agriculture, the net cropped area is only about 9.87% of the total geographical area of the State. The state is deficit in food grains by 1.22 lakh tonnes annually to feed a population of 2.3 million. This is due to a number of constraints, such as the undulating topography, transport and communication problem, population dispersal pattern, inadequate credit support, poor marketing system, etc. To overcome these hurdles, future programmes are proposed, like increasing agricultural/horticultural production and productivity, research system on the development of economically viable and location specific technologies in rainfed, flood‐prone irrigated areas, and increasing the utilisation of irrigation potential etc. Soil : The soils of the hills are derived from gneissic complex parent materials; they are dark brown to dark reddish‐brown in colour, varying in depth from 50‐200 cm. The texture of soils varies from loamy to fine loamy. The soils of the alluvial plains adjacent to the northwest and southern plateau are very deep, dark brown to reddish‐brown in colour and sandy‐loam to silty‐clay in texture. Meghalaya soils are rich in organic carbon, which is a measure of nitrogen supplying potential of the soil, deficient in available phosphorous and medium to low in available
45 potassium. The reaction of the soils varies from acidic (pH 5.0 to 6.0) to strongly acidic (pH 4.5 to 5.0). Most of the soils occurring on higher altitudes under high rainfall belt are strongly acidic due to intense leaching. Base saturation of these soils is less than 35 %. These soils are not suitable for intensive crop production. There is not much difference in fertility classes of the soils of the State. Four soils fertility classes, namely, High Low Medium (HLM), High Medium Medium (HMM), Medium Medium Low (MML), Medium Low Medium (MLM) have been established from the soil test data so far compiled in the Soil Testing Laboratory of the State. Regarding micronutrient status, it has been observed that almost all the acid soils of the North‐Eastern region of the country are deficient in available Boron (B) and Molybdenum (Mo). Acid soils of Meghalaya are rated low in available B and Mo. Total Zinc, Copper and Manganese contents of these soils vary from 10.00 to 17.25, 17.00 to 71.00 and 110 to 770 ppm (parts per million), respectively and DIPA (Diethylene Triamine Penta Acetic Acid) extractable zinc, copper and manganese contents of these soils ranges from 0.72 to 3.20, 0.6 to 2.8 and 3.0 to 162.0 ppm respectively. A study conducted by the Indian council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Complex, Shillong (2006) revealed that about 40% of the soils of the state contain micronutrients below the critical level4. Land use pattern: Land use pattern is envisaged on land capability profile. Since land capability in the mountainous region is determined by the characteristics of micro and mini watersheds, land use pattern is therefore envisaged on the capabilities of each watershed and thus the potential of each watershed is thus envisaged to be developed to yield sustainable land use. Broadly the low lying areas were put under paddy during Kharif and with pulses, paddy, vegetables and oilseeds during the Rabi season depending on the availability of residual moisture and irrigation facilities. Gentle slopes up to 20% were put under other crops like wheat, paddy, maize, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables etc, which not only contribute towards food security but also yield substantial revenue returns per unit of land and labour. On such slopes the concept of watershed management of land and water would be encouraged.
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Horticulture was taken up on slopes above 20% and Border Areas, which are traditional horticultural areas, received special attention. Forest cover in the State (42.01%) is below the national norm of 60% recommended for hilly areas. This is because a sizable proportion of the Forest area is reportedly under shifting cultivation resulting in depletion of the Forest Cover. A very meagre proportion of the geographical area (9.90%) is net sown area, including area under shifting cultivation. The potential net sown area could be increased if and when the fallow lands are utilised for cultivation purposes. The cultivable waste land of the state is 20.63% of the geographical area a part of which might be progressively utilised for cultivation purpose in the long run. The cropping intensity of the state is 120%5. Agrarian Structure‐ Land Holding:
Land Holding in Meghalaya means the operational holdings6, as there is little concept of ownership under the traditional land system. The pattern of operational holdings in the State is characterised by the predominance of small and marginal farmers (below 2 Ha.) who operate 82.57% of the total cropped area. The table below shows the information on Number and Area of Operational Holdings by different size groups in the State during the year 2005. Table 2.2.1: Structure of Land Holding in Meghalaya in year 2005 Size Class of Number of Area (Ha.) Average Percentage Percentage Operational Operational Size of of Holding of Area Holding (Ha.) Holdings Holding (Ha.) Below 0.50 53075 15688 0.3 26.11 6.52 0.50 ‐ 1.0 59410 38994 0.66 29.33 16.2 1.0 – 2.0 55335 73387 1.33 27.23 30.5 2.0 – 3.0 20625 46983 2.28 10.15 19.52 3.0 – 4.0 8070 25977 3.22 3.97 10.79 4.0 – 5.0 3110 13086 4.21 1.53 5.44 5.0 – 7.5 2685 15010 5.59 1.32 6.24 7.5 – 10.0 685 5717 8.35 0.34 2.38 10.0 – 20.0 220 2666 12.12 0.11 1.11 20.0 and 30 3137 104.57 0.1 1.3 Above Total 150170 224957 1.50 100 100 Source : www.megaagriculture.gov.in
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Meghalaya Population 2011: As per details from Census 2011, Meghalaya has population of 29.67 Lakhs, an increase from figure of 23.19 Lakh in 2001 census. Total population of Meghalaya as per 2011 census is 2,966,889 of which male and female are 1,491,832 and 1,475,057 respectively. In 2001, total population was 2,318,822 in which males were 1,176,087 while females were 1,142,735. Meghalaya Population Growth Rate: The total population growth in this decade was 27.95 percent while in previous decade it was 29.94 percent. The population of Meghalaya forms 0.25 percent of India in 2011. In 2001, the figure was 0.23 percent. Meghalaya Literacy Rate 2011: Literacy rate in Meghalaya has seen upward trend and is 74.43 percent as per 2011 population census. Of that, male literacy stands at 75.95 percent while female literacy is at 71.88 percent. In 2001, literacy rate in Meghalaya stood at 62.56 percent of which male and female were 71.18 percent and 50.43 percent literate respectively. In actual numbers, total literates in Meghalaya stands at 1,785,005 of which males were 913,879 and females were 871,126. Meghalaya Density 2011: Total area of Meghalaya is 22,429 sq. km. Density of Meghalaya is 132 per sq km which is lower than national average 382 per sq km. In 2001, density of Meghalaya was 103 per sq km, while nation average in 2001 was 324 per sq km. Meghalaya Sex Ratio: Sex Ratio in Meghalaya is 989 i.e. for each 1000 male, which is below national average of 940 as per census 2011. In 2001, the sex ratio of female was 975 per 1000 males in Meghalaya.
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Table 2.2.2 : Pattern of Demography of Meghalaya Description 2001 2011 Approximate Population 23.19 Lakhs 29.67 Lakhs Actual Population 2318822 2966889 Male 1176087 1491832 Female 1142735 1475057 Population Growth 29.94% 27.95% Percentage of total 0.23% 0.25% Population Sex Ratio 975 989 Child Sex Ratio 932 970 Density/Km² 103 132 Density/Mi² 268 343 Area Km² 22429 22429 Area Mi² 8660 8660 Total Child Population (0‐6 467979 568536 Age) Male Population (0‐6 Age) 237215 288646 Female Population (0‐6 230764 279890 Age) Literacy 62.56% 74.43% Male Literacy 71.18% 75.95% Female literacy 50.43% 71.88% Total Literacy 1157875 1785005 Male Literacy 614272 913879 Female Literacy 543603 871126 Source: Census Report 2001 & 2011 Meghalaya Urban Population 2011: Out of total population of Meghalaya, 20.07% people live in urban regions. The total figure of population living in urban areas is 595,450 of which 297,572 are males and while remaining 297,878 are females. The urban population in the last 10 years has increased by 20.07%. Sex Ratio in urban regions of Meghalaya was 1001 females per 1000 males. For child (0‐6) sex ratio the figure for urban region stood at 954 girls per 1000 boys. Total children (0‐6 age) living in urban areas of Meghalaya were 77,944. Of total population in urban region, 13.09 % were children (0‐6). Average Literacy rate in Meghalaya for Urban regions was 90.79 percent in which males were 92.46% literate while female literacy stood at 89.24%. Total literates in urban region of Meghalaya were 469,851.
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Meghalaya Rural Population 2011: Of the total population of Meghalaya state, around 79.93 percent live in the villages of rural areas. In actual numbers, males and females were 1,194,260 and 1,177,179 respectively. Total population of rural areas of Meghalaya state was 2,371,439. The population growth rate recorded for this decade (2001‐2011) was 79.93%. In rural regions of Meghalaya state, female sex ratio per 1000 males was 986 while same for the child (0‐6 age) was 972 girls per 1000 boys. In Meghalaya, 490,592 children (0‐6) live in rural areas. Child population forms 20.69 percent of total rural population. In rural areas of Meghalaya, literacy rate for males and female stood at 71.46 % and 67.15 %. Average literacy rate in Meghalaya for rural areas was 69.92 percent. Total literates in rural areas were 1,315,154. Table 2.2.3 : Comparison between Rural and Urban Population of Meghalaya: RURAL URBAN Population (%) 79.93 % 20.07 % Total Population 2371439 595450 Male Population 1194260 297572 Female Population 1177179 297878 Population Growth 27.17% 31.12% Sex Ratio 986 1001 Child Sex Ratio (0‐6) 972 954 Child Population (0‐6) 490592 77944 Child Percentage (0‐6) 20.69% 13.09% Literates 1315154 469851 Average Literacy 69.92% 90.79% Male Literacy 71.46% 92.46% Female Literacy 67.15% 89.24%
Floriculture in Meghalaya
Introduction: Floriculture may be defined as "the art and knowledge of growing flowers to perfection". Being a branch of Horticulture, it deals with the cultivation of flowers and ornamental crops from the time of planting to the time of harvesting. It also includes production of planting materials through seeds, cutting, budding, grafting, etc up to the marketing of the flower and flower produce.
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In Meghalaya, floriculture is mostly practiced as a hobby by flower lovers. However, lately the high cost of planting materials, seeds, cut‐flowers etc and the increase in their demand, has created awareness in the grower on the commercial aspects. Although commercial Floriculture is a recent development in Meghalaya, however, considering the natural advantages of having the most varied range of climatic conditions in the country, it has a very high potential for cultivation of all types of flowers. The rich flora and the many species of Orchids growing wild in the State which is the highest ever recorded in a single concentrated area is a testimony to this effect. The Floriculture development scheme has created a very good and positive impact to the farmers in terms of returns, creating new economic avenues and thereby enhancing the benefits within a short period to the existing assets of the farmers. The beneficiaries selected were made more aware of the benefits of cultivation of ornamental crops and through the incentives given in this scheme have become more motivated especially in the commercial aspects which will automatically improve their socio ‐ economic conditions. Floriculture Development Scheme in Meghalaya:
Objectives: The objective of the scheme is to focus on the promotional and awareness aspects by providing incentives to the farmers and motivating them to grow traditional as well as 'non‐traditional floral crops and house‐plants for commercial purpose. However, with the understanding that area expansion of floriculture activities to be supported by Technology Mission Scheme, it was decided in a State level Departmental meeting that Floriculture Development Scheme (State Plan) will support the floriculture farmers in terms of infrastructure like green house etc with a minimum area of 100 sqm as per Government of India rates. Each unit will serve as a demonstration for which the Department will provide technical guidelines through extension and training. Crop selection will be on the basis of existing popularity and market demands. A few of the recommended crops are orchids, Chrysanthemums, Gerberas, Carnations, Liliums, Strelitzia reginae, Gladiolus, Statice, Gomphrena, Helichyrsums, Roses and different kind of flowering shrubs and house plants etc.
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Some component of the scheme like wages, material and supplies, tools and implement etc is also being implemented at the floriculture Nursery at Government Fruit Garden, Shillong. The nursery propagates seedlings of seasonal flowers, potted plants, sale of cut‐flowers etc. This is also the only floriculture nursery in Shillong which supports floriculture activities through supply of planting material, training etc to the public and farmers who are interested in floriculture. Another component of the scheme is to support the Tissue Culture Laboratory at Govt. Fruit Garden, Shillong, again through wages, material and supplies, Laboratory equipment etc. It was set up during 2003‐04 under Technology Mission Scheme which started functioning during 2005‐06. This Scheme was discontinued as it was a Central Scheme and hence subsume under this state plan ‐Scheme. The aims and objective of the Tissue Culture laboratory is to enhance the production of planting materials of all horticulture crops especially floriculture. Moreover, this is the only Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Department.
Eligibility for availing the Scheme:
All categories of farmers within Meghalaya Criteria for selection of beneficiaries under Floriculture: 1. Beneficiary must have a minimum area of 0.2 ha. or more. 2. Preference will be given to highly enlightened progressive farmers, entrepreneurs who are willing to invest in non ‐ food crops. 3. Beneficiary will be selected by the officer of the respective District Horticulture Officer. 4. Beneficiary must have some level of familiarity with ornamental crops. 5. Beneficiary must have the necessary financial support, economic base for expansion in terms of planting materials, infrastructure etc to improve the commercial potentiality as required/demanded in the cultivation of ornamental crops
Components under the Scheme: 1. Planting materials like seeds, seedlings, Plantlets Bulbs, Corms, Tubers, Mother Plants seeds/ bulbs (flower)/ Leather leaf fern/ polythene sleeve/bags/plastic &
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Earthernpots/ U.V. films/ Shadenets/ Polythene pipes/ Protrays/ cocopeat/ Perlite/ soil rite/ PH meter/ EC meter/ rock wool/ labelling tags/ packing material for cut flowers, etc. 2. Purchase of Hybrid flower seeds, planting materials for distribution to the farmers at 50% subsidy. 3. Drip Irrigation @ Rs. 262/sq.m 4. Organic and Inorganic manure fertilizers, micro‐nutrients, soluble fertilizer rooting hormones, plant protection chemicals etc. 5. Tools & Implements‐Secateurs, Pruning Knives, watering cans. Digging spade (plastic handle) sickle (Datri) self sharpening serrated teeth model, Doa, Fork, measuring equipments, Rashi (Local, Knup, Khoh, Star, Hedge shear, Hanging basket, Watering can, lawn mowers etc 6. Green house for a minimum area of 150 sqm @ Rs. 935/sqm as per G.O.I. norms.
Table 2.2.4 : District‐Wise Horti‐Hubs With The Types of Flowers They Specialize District Specialization Functions as a Hub for temperate zones East Khasi Hills Catering to flower cluster Specialised for Flowers, Orchids like Cymbidium, Lady Slipper, Carnation, Liliums and Alstomeria West Khasi Hills Rose, Carnations Jaintia Hills Rose, Gerberas, Carnation, Leather Leaf Fern, Orchids East Garo Hills Bird of Paradise, Leather Leaf Fern, Orchids West Garo Hills Anthurium, Carnation, Heliconia, Leather Leaf Fern, Strawberry, Coloured Capsicum South Garo Hills Anthurium, Coloured Capsicum, Leather Leaf & Vegetables Ri‐Bhoi District Rose & Strawberry
NAGALAND Introduction Nagaland is a state in North East India. It borders the state of Assam to the west, Arunachal Pradesh and part of Assam to the north, Burma to the east and Manipur to the south. The state capital is Kohima, and the largest city is Dimapur. It has an area of
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16,579 square kilometres with a population of 1,980,602 as per the 2011 Census of India, making it one of the smallest states of India. The state is inhabited by 16 major tribes ‐ Ao Naga, Angami Naga, Chang Naga, Konyak people, Lotha Naga, Sumi Naga, Chakhesang Naga, Khiamniungan people, Bodo‐Kachari people, Phom Naga, Rengma Naga, Sangtam Naga, Yimchunger, Thadou people, Zeliang and Pochury as well as a number of sub‐tribes. Each tribe is unique in character with its own distinct customs, language and dress. Two threads common to all, is language and religion ‐ English is in predominant use and Nagaland is one of three states in India where the population is predominantly Christian, with conversions starting in the British Raj era. Nagaland became the 16th state of India on 1 December 1963. Agriculture is the most important economic activity and the principal crops include rice, corn, millets, pulses, tobacco, oilseeds, sugarcane, potatoes, and fibres. Other significant economic activity includes forestry, tourism, insurance, real estate, and miscellaneous cottage industries. The state has experienced insurgency as well as inter‐ethnic conflict, since the 1950s. This violence and insecurity has long limited Nagaland's economic development, where it had to commit its scarce resources on law, order and security. In last 15 years, the state has seen less violence and annual economic growth rates nearing 10% on a compounded basis, one of the fastest in the region7. The state is mostly mountainous except those areas bordering Assam valley. Mount Saramati is the highest peak with a height of 3,840 metres and its range forms a natural barrier between Nagaland and Burma. It lies between the parallels of 98‐degree and 96‐ degree East Longitude and 26.6‐degree and 27.4‐degree latitude north of the equator. The state is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna; it has been suggested as the "falcon capital of the world". Geography and climate: Nagaland is largely a mountainous state. The Naga Hills rise from the Brahmaputra Valley in Assam to about 2,000 feet (610 m) and rise further to the southeast, as high as 6,000 feet (1,800 m). Mount Saramati at an elevation of 12,601.70 feet (3,841.00 m) is the state's highest peak; this is where the Naga Hills merge with the Patkai Range in which form the boundary with Burma. Rivers such as the Doyang and Diphu to the
54 north, the Barak river in the southwest, dissect the entire state. 20 percent of the total land area of the state is covered with wooded forest, a haven for flora and fauna. The evergreen tropical and the sub tropical forests are found in strategic pockets in the state. Nagaland has a largely monsoon climate with high humidity levels. Annual rainfall averages around 70–100 inches (1,800–2,500 mm), concentrated in the months of May to September. Temperatures range from 70 °F (21 °C) to 104 °F (40 °C). In winter, temperatures do not generally drop below 39 °F (4 °C), but frost is common at high elevations. The state enjoys a salubrious climate. Summer is the shortest season in the state that lasts for only a few months. The temperature during the summer season remains between 16 °C (61 °F) to 31 °C (88 °F). Winter makes an early arrival and bitter cold and dry weather strikes certain regions of the state. The maximum average temperature recorded in the winter season is 24 °C (75 °F). Strong north‐west winds blow across the state during the months of February and March. Demography: According to Census 2001, the population of Nagaland was nearly two million people, of which 1.04 million were males and 0.95 million females. Among its various districts, Tuensang had the largest population (414,000), followed by Kohima (314,000). The least populated district was Phek (148,000). 75% of the population lived in the rural areas. As of 2013, about 10% of rural population is below the poverty line; among the people living in urban areas 4.3% of them are below the poverty line. The state showed a population drop between 2001 census to 2011 census, the only state to show a population drop in the census. This has been attributed, by scholars, to incorrect counting in past censuses; the 2011 census in Nagaland is considered most reliable so far. Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion of Nagaland. The state's population is 1.978 million, out of which 88% are Christians. The census of 2011 recorded the state's Christian population at 1,739,651, making it, with Meghalaya and Mizoram, one of the three Christian‐majority states in India and the only state where Christians form 90% of the population. The state has a very high church attendance rate in both urban and
55 rural areas. Huge churches dominate the skylines of Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung.
Hinduism, Islam and Jainism is also found in Nagaland. They are minority religions in the state, at 8.75% , 2.47% and 0.13% of the population respectively Economy: 42% of Nagaland is covered by forests. Forest and agriculture are primary drivers of its economy. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Nagaland was about 12065 crore (US$1.9 billion) in 2011‐12. Nagaland's GSDP grew at 9.9% compounded annually for a decade, thus more than doubling the per capita income. Nagaland has a high literacy rate of 79.55 per cent. Majority of the population in the state speaks English, which is the official language of the state. The state offers technical and medical education. Nevertheless, agriculture and forestry contribute majority of Nagaland's Gross Domestic Product. Most of state's population, about 68 per cent of the total, depends on rural cultivation. Forestry is also an important source of income. Cottage industries such as weaving, woodwork, and pottery are also an important source of revenue. Nagaland emerged as a separate State, carved out of the Naga Hills districts of Assam and North Eastern Frontier Agency (NEFA) province in 1963. The State has a population of 19.89 lakh with an area of 16.8 thousand Sq. kms as per the 2001 census. It has 11 districts and 52 blocks covering1286 villages. There are 11 DRDAs and 1083 Village Development Boards (VDBs). The density of population is low at 120 per sq.km. Rural population constitutes 82.26% and urban population17.74% of the total. Overall literacy ratio is high at 67.14%. Though Nagaland has heavy rainfall, it lacks adequate water storage facilities. This infrastructure limitation leads to greater challenges in bringing more areas under irrigation. The average net area irrigated to total crop area is low at 43%.This indicates that 57% of agriculture is being carried out under rain‐fed irrigation condition Agriculture is the main occupation of the people of Nagaland. About 65% of the population depends on agriculture as per 2001 census. Shifting (Jhum) and terrace cultivation remain the dominant form of the land use pattern of the State. Jhum cultivation has been devised over generations and terraced rice cultivation has been practiced for decades. Rice cultivation is mostly done in the plain area of Dimapur,
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Wokha, Mokokchung and Mon districts. Government of Nagaland has promoted terracing as an alternative to jhum cultivation. Use of technological innovations in terms of improved seeds, fertilizers and better implements has been limited. The level of fertilizer consumption in Nagaland was 4 kg/ha of net sown area. This practice of harmonizing with nature and influence of environment has enabled Nagaland to experience and explore organic farming practices.8 Horticulture: Till recently, for most farmers horticulture has been mainly a backyard activity as they are generally busy throughout the year in cultivation of food crops and have little time for development of horticultural crops on a commercial basis. Besides, due to the long gestation period involved in plantation and horticulture crops, the cultivation of these crops has been generally confined to small backyard gardens developed by almost every household. It is only in the past decade that there has been a more focused attention to the development of horticulture in the State. The plantation and horticulture sector plays an important role in the development of the rural economy of the State. The diverse agro climatic conditions, varied soil types and abundant rainfall prevailing in the State enables the cultivation of several plantation and horticultural crops covering fruits, vegetables, spices, flowers, mushrooms and medicinal and aromatic plants. The geographical conditions offer tremendous scope for horticulture development in the State.9 Table 2.2.5 : Potential Crops in Nagaland Fruits Passion fruit, orange, pineapple and banana Vegetables Cabbage, peas, onion and potato Flowers Gladioli, roses, lillium, orchids and anthurium Spices Ginger, cardamom, turmeric, and Black pepper Medicinal & Aromatic Plants Patchouli, neem, agar and ginseng Plantation Crops Areca, coconut & cashew Source: Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland Floriculture : Floriculture has emerged as a major diversification option in the agri‐business in recent years. The product wise groupings under floriculture are cut‐flowers (fresh), bulbs and tubers, live potted plants, dried plants, dried flowers, etc. Floriculture has the potential to contribute substantially to the growth of the agriculture sector in the state. The State
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Horticulture department has identified a few flowers for commercial production with an eye on the export market. Lillium, anthurium, carnation and Roses are the identified flowers. Commercial production of rose and lillium has since started and the same are being exported to both domestic and foreign markets. Accordingly, a number of flower growers have been given the requisite training for commercial production of these flowers. Necessary backward and forward linkages have been created / initiated by the Department to ensure viability of these units. The districts of Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha and Dimapur have been selected for commercial production of these flowers based on their accessibility and agro‐climatic suitability. The market for cut flowers is increasing with a parallel demand for potted plants, foliage, etc.10 The large‐scale cultivation of flowers, fruits and vegetables transform the lives of the people of Nagaland. Nagas have always had a fondness for growing flowers, though it is only in recent years that people are taking up growing of flowers on a commercial scale, funded under the Horticulture Technology Mission. Nagas experience a “labour of love”or tending to the flowers rather than strictly for commercial gains. When just a few years ago Nagas were importing flowers from outside, Nagas can now take pride in the fact that their high quality home grown flowers are finding a market outside the State. Depending on the performance of the growers, beneficiaries are also given integrated components like vermiculture units and farm handling units, besides water tanks. The projection of Nagaland as a large scale producer of flowers, fruits and vegetables for internal/external consumption has been a big boost to the rural economy and it is now necessary to encourage floriculture and horticulture on a commercial basis with State Government help and to form Producer Companies and Farmers Association, to assist in marketing of perishable goods.11 Before the introduction of Horticulture Mission in the State, Floriculture was merely confined to kitchen gardens in small patches. But with the active support of the Technology Mission for the North‐East, Floriculture activity has been taken up commercially in the State through allocation of various funds. Cultivation of flowers on a commercial scale was initiated from the year 2004‐2005 and is now recognized as one of the main thrust areas for trade within and outside the State.
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The progress of business in Floriculture has been rapid and quite satisfactory. Naga flowers presently command a popular and prestigious name in the Floriculture world today. Commercial cultivation of flowers has been flourishing, opening a huge prospect for the state to emerge as a major producer of fresh cut flowers. Floriculture has emerged as a major business option for unemployed youths of Nagaland, with the trade registering annual turnovers in crores of rupees in recent years. The Nagaland flowers being of international quality, were high in demand in both India and abroad. The State Horticulture Department has identified a few flowers like lillium, anthurium, carnation and roses for commercial purposes with an eye on the export market. Nagaland receives its share of the funds for integrated development of horticulture in the State. 15% of the State’s flower growers were aware of the fact that the flower business would give them fastest returns12. With this aim in mind, more and more educated Naga youths were adopting floriculture as an income avenue, more importantly as an alternative means of earning their livelihood.
2.3 Types of Flowers and their Techniques of Cultivation: GERBERA A. Introduction: Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) is an important commercial flower crop grown throughout the world in a wide range of climatic conditions. It is ideal for beds, borders, pots and rock gardens. The flowers come in a wide range of colors and lend themselves beautifully to different floral arrangements. The cut blooms when placed in water remain fresh for a reasonable amount of time. Gerbera belongs to the family “Compositae”. Plants are stem less and tender perennial herbs, leave radical, petiole, lanceolate, deeply lobed, sometimes leathery, narrower at the base and wider at toe and are arranged in a rosette at the base. The foliage in some species has a light under surface. The daisy‐like flowers grow in a wide range of colours including yellow, orange, cream‐ white, pink, brick red, scarlet, maroon, terracotta and various other intermediate shades. The double cultivars sometimes have bicolor flowers, which are very attractive. The flower stalks are long, thin and leafless.
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B. Soil Structure: To be successful in Gerbera growing, soil selection is very important. The main factors to consider are as under: 1] Soil pH should be in between 5.5 to 6.5 or it should be maintained at this level to get maximum efficiency in absorption of nutrients. 2] The salinity level of soil should not be more than 1 mS/cm. Therefore, as soon as the site is selected, the soil should be analyzed to decide its further reclamation. 3] The soil should be highly porous and well drained to have better root growth and better penetration of roots. The roots of Gerbera go as deep as 50‐70 cm. C. General Disinfection of Soil: Before plantation of Gerbera, disinfections of soil is absolutely necessary. In particular, the fungus Phytophthora is a menace to Gerbera. The various methods of sterilization are: 1. Steam: Not feasible for Indian conditions. 2. Sun: The soil is to be covered with plastic for 6‐8 weeks. Sunrays will heat up the soil, which will kill most fungi with time.
3. Chemical:Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) Procedure: Bed material is to be mixed properly Flat beds are to be made of 8m X 4m each.
Normally to sterilize 500 M² area 150 lit. H2O2 in 1,00,000 lit. Water is needed. But there may be change in water quantity depending on the initial moisture level of the soil. For 8m X 4m bed i.e. 32 m2 area the water requirement is approximately 5700 lit.
2 The requirement of H2O2 for 32 m area is 8.55 lit. i.e. 8.55 lit. to be mixed in 5700lit. water. It is necessary to know the discharge of electric motor (E.M.) available at site.
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Now the time required to pier up 5700 lit. water as per motor discharge is to be calculated
While H2O2 sterilization, most important factor to be taken into consideration
that the 8.55 lit. H2O2 will be continuously discharged with 5700 lit. water for 32
m2 area in desired time. If the H2O2 will be discharged earlier than the water then the procedure is wrong, as it does not give proper sterilization. D. Bed Preparation: In general, Gerberas are grown on raised beds to assist in easier movement and better drainage. The dimensions of the bed should be as follows:
60 cm 60 cm 1’ 1’ 45 cm 45 cm
1.5’ 4.5’’ 1.25’ 4.5’’ 70 cm 70 cm 2’
Bed height : 1.5 ft. (45 cm) Width of bed : 2 ft. (60 cm) Pathways between beds : 1 ft. (30 cm) If soil is black cotton gravels or murum (6” layer) can be added at the bottom for better drainage. Recommended quantity of soil and sand is added along with organic manures. Organic manure is recommended to improve soil texture and to provide nutrition gradually. At the time of bed preparation (After fumigation) neemcake (@1kg/Sq.M.) is added as prevention against nematode. All material should be mixed thoroughly for optimum results. The composition of bed material should be such that it should be highly porous, well drained and provide proper aeration to the root system.
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Table 2.3.1 : Bed Material Composition of Gerbera
Material Clay soil Silty loam soil Red soil 55% 60% Sand 15% 10% FYM 30% 30% Rice husk 4kg/m2 2.5kg/m2
Basal fertilizer dose (After bed preparation):
Area Chemical Quantity 100 sqft. Single Super Phosphate 2.50 kg 100 sqft. Magnesium Sulphate 0.50 kg Biozyme granules 200 gm Humigaurd Granules 200 gm
This is to be mixed well in upper 6” soil layer, water is to be applied and at Vapsa condition (Field capacity level) EC and PH of soil is to be checked before plantation. E. Green House for Commercial Cultivation: 1. Criteria for site selection: a. The land should be levelled. b. No wind breaks or multi storied structures present upto 30 meters. c. Good connectivity to nearest market d. Electricity at the site e. No high tension electricity wire upto 5 meters f. Availability of good quality of water 2. Specification: a. Height: 5 to 6.5m b. Length: North‐South c. Gutter direction: North‐South d. Polythene thickness: 200microns
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e. Vent opening: Along the wind direction f. Distance between two adjoining poly houses should be minimum 4m. 3. Sufficient ventilation space is required on top and sides. 4. To protect the plants from the rain in the monsoons, without affecting the air circulation side curtains should be kept open in slanting position. 5. To control light intensity and solar radiation, white shade net (50%) is used. Approximately 400w/m2 light intensity is required on the plant level. Top shade net opening and closing: During cloudy climate it is to be kept open, otherwise closed from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. During cold nights the shade nets are to remain closed In summer they vare tobe kept closed from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm. 6. The ideal temperature for Gerbera flower initiation is 230C and for leaf unfolding is 25‐270C. The flowering of Gerbera is harmed below 120C and above 350C.
120C 350C
Bud initiation will stop Frequency of flowers will be very low and abortion of buds will
7. The optimum humidity inside the greenhouse should be 70‐75%, which will maintain the health of the plants. 8. The top of the plastic should be washed in every one month interval to remove the dust and get maximum benefit of sunlight. 9. White wash is to be applied to East, west and north sides of green house to protect plants from bright light intensity during summer season. F. Planting:
While planting Gerbera plants, the crown of plants should be 1‐2 cm above soil‐level. As the root system establishes; the plants are pulled down. Therefore, the crown must be above the ground level at planting and also throughout the life cycle.
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25 per cent above the soil
75 per cent under the soil
The seedlings are to be planted without disturbing the root‐ball. Generally two rows should be planted on one bed at 37.5 cm distance between the rows and 30 cm distance between the plants in one row i.e. Row ‐ Row = 37.5 cm = 1.25’ Plant – Plant = 30.0 cm = 1’ The soil surrounding the plant needs to be raked every fortnight for aeration. After plantation, the humidity is to be maintained at 80 – 90% for 4‐6 weeks to avoid desiccation of plants. Excessive watering to Gerbera should be strictly avoided.
G. Irrigation: 1. Water quality should be as follows: a. pH‐ 6.5‐ 7.0 b. Ec‐ < 0.7 ms/cm. c. T. D. S. < 450ppm d. Hardness < 200ppm To lower the pH of water, acids in the water tank are to be added which should be rinsed properly and then the water should be used for irrigation and spraying. 2. Immediately after plantation, the plant should be irrigated with overhead irrigation for three weeks to enable uniform root development. Thereafter a gradual change to drip irrigation is advisable. Drip irrigation is mainly for correct doses of fertilizers. 3. Generally one drip per plant is required. The aim is to provide sufficient irrigation in the 2nd year for the extra foliage. The water requirement of Gerbera
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plant is approximately 300 to 700 ml per plant per day depending upon the season. In hot summer, foggers can be used to maintain the humidity of the air. 4. Before irrigation the soil column is to be observed and the soil visually checked for moisture content. Then the quantity of irrigation required is to be decided. 5. During summer season, water to the edges of the beds is to be applied frequently by using shower to minimize the evaporation losses and to maintain micro climate. For this purpose provision for water outlets (1” diameter pipe) should be made inside the poly house. Number of outlets depends on size of the poly house. 6. The plants are to be always watered before 12 noon. 7. The relative humidity of air should not exceed 90‐92 per cent, as it will lead to deformity of flowers. 8. As a thumb rule, the soil should be moderately moist‐however never having excessive water. 9. Always fresh water should be used for irrigation i. e. Water is not to be stored for more than 4 to 5 days. H. Fertilization: 1. After three weeks of plantation apply N:P:K 1:1:1 (e.g. 19:19:19) @ 0.4 gm/plant every alternate day with Ec 1.5ms/cm for first three months during the vegetative phase to have better foliage. 2. Irrigation and fertilization is to be conducted frequently in small quantities for optimum results with care to fulfill the crop requirement. 3. Micronutrients should be given daily or weekly as per the deficiency symptoms (e.g. Fertilon Combi II, Microsole B, Rexolin, Sequel and Mahabrexil @ 40g per 1000lit of water) 4. Organic manures with Ec less than 2ms/cm is to be added at every 3 months interval to maintain proper C:N Ratio. 5. As a layman, whenever one enters the greenhouse the plants should look very healthy and glossy.
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I.Cropping Patterns and Harvesting of Flowers : Gerbera is a 24‐30 months crop. The first flowers are produced 7‐8 weeks after plantation when plants are with 14 to 16 leaves. The average yield is 240 flowers per sq. mt. (6 plants/sqmt.). 1. The flowers are harvested when 2‐3 whorls of stamens have entirely been developed; this will decide the vase life of flowers. a. The flowers are to be plucked in the morning or late in the evening or during the day when temperature is low. b. The flower is to be plucked from the plant rather than cutting them. c. The heel of the stem is to be given giving an angular cut. d. Immediately the flowers are to be put in 2‐3 cm water after harvesting for four hours at 14‐150 C. e. Always commercial bleach/Sodium Hypochlorite (@ 7‐10 ml) or Citric acid + Ascorbic acid @ 5ml each/lit of water is to be added. f. The individual flower is 66leeved with poly thin bag of size 4.5”x4.5” g. Bundle of 10 flowers is prepared. h. The flowers are packed in a box with following dimensions. Generally 250 to 300 flowers are packed per box.
40 cm
12 cm
98 cm A good flower is: 1. Stalk length = 45 – 55 cm. 2. Diameter of flower = 10 – 12 cm. A Gerbera cut flower has a minimum vase life of 8‐10 days.
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CARNATION
Carnation Cultivation Introduction:
Carnation is one of the most important cut flowers of the world. Carnations are grown in almost every climate. In temperate zones mostly in glasshouses, in sub tropic areas, in plastic and glasshouses as well as in open air and in tropic areas more or less shaded. Carnation belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae, the genus Dianthus and species caryophyllus.
The carnation varieties can be divided into two main groups:
1. Standard varieties:
The standard carnation has one large flower on an individual stem. It was the first type of carnations used for large‐scale production.
2. Spray varieties:
The spray carnation has several shorter branches with smaller flower on each branch. These varieties were developed less than 50 years ago in United States.
Importance and uses:
Carnations are excellent for cut flowers, bedding, pots, borders, edging and rock gardens. Due to its excellent keeping quality, wide range of forms, ability to withstand long distance transportation and remarkable ability to rehydrate after continuous shipping. Carnation is preferred by growers to rose and chrysanthemums in several flower‐exporting countries.
Although cut carnations are sold in the western countries all the year round, they are in particular demand for the Valentine’s day, Easter, Mother’s day and Christmas.
India too has the potential for growing good quality carnation. Places having cool climate like Kalimpong, Kodaikanal, Bangalore, Pune, Nasik, etc. are most suitable areas for the production of cut flowers, which may also be exported to Europe.
Soil: Carnations can be successfully grown in any type of soil but the soil should be well drained and be in good physical condition. Soil must be worked upto 40 cm as carnation roots go as deep as 25 to 30 cm. The ideal soil pH is between 5.5 to 6.5. The optimum
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EC during vegetative stage is 1.2 ms/cm. and during generative stage is 1.5 to 1.7 mS/cm.
A rich sandy loam or loamy sand is considered to be the most ideal soil for successful production of carnation. Soils with higher amount of clay or silt should be amended by incorporating organic matter or compost.
It is indispensable to sterilize the soil to keep pace with problem of Fusarium and nematodes (usually with Methyl Bromide). Before planting, soil sample should be analyzed with respect of main and trace elements to advice on basic fertilization.
General disinfection of soil:
Before plantation of Carnation, disinfections of soil are absolutely necessary. In particular, the fungus Phytophthora is a menace to Carnation. The various methods of sterilization are:
1. Steam: Not feasible for Indian conditions. 2. Sun: The soil is to be covered with plastic for 6‐8 weeks. Sunrays will heat up the soil, which will kill most fungi with time.
3. Chemical: Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)
Procedure: Bed material is to be properly mixed. Flat beds of 8m X 4m each are to be made.
Normally to sterilize 500 M² area 150 lit. H2O2 in 1,00,000 lit. Water is needed. But there may be change in water quantity depending on the initial moisture level of the soil. For 8m X 4m bed i.e. 32 m2 area the water requirement is approximately 5700 lit.
2 The requirement of H2O2 for 32 m area is 8.55 lit. i.e. 8.55 lit. Which is to be mixed in 5700lit. water.
While H2O2 sterilization, most important factor to be taken into consideration is
that the 8.55 lit. H2O2 will be continuously discharged with 5700 lit. water for 32 m2 area in desired time. If the H2O2 will be discharged earlier than the water then the procedure is wrong, as it does not give proper sterilization.
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Climate:
1. Temperature: Temperature is the major factor that influences the growth and flowering of carnation. Best quality carnations are produced in areas having high light intensity during winter and at the same time the temperatures during summer months are mild. In case of carnation growing, moderate temperatures are preferred. Temperature at night is very important for quality. The difference between day and night temperature should be big enough and the night temperature low enough to grow carnations of best quality. Higher day and night temperatures especially during flowering results in abnormal flower opening and calyx splitting. Ideal day and night temperature is 28OC and 16 to 18OC, respectively.
2. Light: The carnation is a facultative long day plant, which means that they form the flowers faster during long days than in short days. Carnations require high levels to produce high quality flowers. Cyclic lighting from dusk to dawn increases the flower fresh weight and the strength of flower stalk. The photoperiod is more important factor than light intensity in flowering, which influences the lateral shoot development and flowering in carnation. Carnation handles lot of light i.e. upto 50000 lux.
3. Humidity: At the initial stages of growth and development, humidity should be maintained around 80 to 85 per cent. Whereas at full growth stage it should be 60 to 65 per cent. Hot and humid climate is not suitable for carnation cultivation.
4. Optimum CO2 concentration: Should be around 800 to 1000 ppm. Greenhouse for commercial cultivation: 1. Criteria for site selection a. The land should be leveled. b. No wind breaks or multi storied structures should be present upto 30 meters. c. Good connectivity to nearest market d. Electricity at the site
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e. No high tension electricity wire upto 5 meters f. Availability of good quality of water 2. Specification for green house: a. Height: 5 to 6.5m b. Length: North‐South c. Gutter direction: North‐South d. Polythene thickness: 200microns e. Vent opening: Along the wind direction f. Distance between two adjoining poly houses should be minimum 4m. 3. Sufficient ventilation space is required on top and sides. 4. To protect the plants from the rain in the monsoons, without affecting the air circulation side curtains should be kept open in slanting position. 5. To control light intensity and solar radiation, white shade net (50%) is used. Approximately 400w/m2 light intensity is required on the plant level. Top shade net opening and closing: i. During cloudy climate it is to be kept open, otherwise closed from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm. ii. During cold nights the shade nets should be closed. iii. In summer it should remain closed from 10.00 am to 4.30 pm. 6. Top of the plastic should be washed at every one month interval to remove the dust and get maximum benefit of sunlight. 7. White wash is to be applied to East, west and north sides of green house to protect plants from bright light intensity during summer season.
Support Material, Bed Layout and Irrigation System :
Support System:
The carnation crop needs to be supported with 4 or 5 layers of support material. Good support material is essential for the success of the cultivation. If the crop is not supported well enough, it will collapse. This will result in bent stems and a stagnation of the crop development. Good support material is metal wire. Minimum at every 3
70 meters, the wires should be supported with poles. The poles at the beginning and the end of each bed should be strong enough and be cast concrete.
For an optimal support of the crop an increasing width of the meshes may be used e.g. the bottom net 7.5 X 7.5 cm, then one net of 10 X 10 cm and two nets of 12.5 X 12.5 cm. Distance between first three nets should be 10cm and between 3rd and 4th net 20 cm. Usually, 36 plants per net m2 (= per m2 of bed) and about 20 plants per gross m2 (per m2 of greenhouse) are planted. This plant density is to be strictly maintained. More plants per m2 will just give a higher production in the first flush, afterwards this advantage disappears and more problems with disease will occur.
Bed layout:
Normally, the beds are 0.8meter wide and the path is 50 cm. In order to prevent the crop from being washed away, the carnations are cultivated on raised beds. The beds have to be raised 20 to 25 cm to achieve improved drainage. To create favourable growing conditions a good quantity of organic matter along with basal dose of NPK fertilizer should be applied and mixed into the soil.
Table 2.3.2 : Bed Material Composition of Carnation
Material Clay soil Silty loam soil Red soil 55% 60% Sand 15% 10% FYM 30% 30% Rice husk 4kg/m2 2.5kg/m2 Source : Growing manuals of www.kfbioplants.com
Basal organic dose: Neem cake (@1kg/Sq. m.) should be applied after fumigation, at the time of bed preparation as preventive against nematodes. Irrigation system: During the first three weeks after planting, overhead sprinklers are needed to prevent young plants from drying out. Afterwards, it is possible to gradually change to drip irrigation (3 tubes per bed). The water needs to be filtered with a sand filter to prevent obstruction of the drip tubes. It is to be ensured that there is sufficient supply of good quality water. To ensure even distribution of water, the drippers should be placed at a
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distance of 30cm. When a carnation crop is in full growth and healthy, it absorbs 6 to 7 liters of water per m2 per day.
1) Support Material : 2) Bed Lay‐Out : (Front and Side View) Plant Diagram (Top View)
1m 30cm
80cm
The size of the strong pole (angle) 40x5mm The size of the support pole (angle) 25x3mm
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Cultivation : Planting: It is vital that the cuttings get a good start:
The Ec and pH of the soil is to be checked after application of basal dose and before plantation. Ec should be less than 1mS/cm
The soil prepared should be prepared in good time. The planting substrate is to be moistened evenly. Shallow planting is essential in tropical areas. The netting is to be put on the beds before planting. Ideal condition for planting is a warm, humid and fairly bright day.
One should not actually ‘plant’ the cuttings but make a small depression with 0nes fingers or knuckles and ‘stand’ the cuttings as shallow as possible. One should not firm it in or move soil or peat around the base of the cutting. After planting, the white perlite in the root ball should still be visible. Correct instructions and regular checks are essential. The cuttings must be prevented from drying out just after planting. Depending on weather conditions; it may needed to start giving overhead watering for 5 minutes. Too much watering during the first week should be avoided. High air humidity is to be maintained. The path as well should be sprayed, not just the plants. During intense sunshine it is necessary to shade the plants slightly, until new roots are visible. The aim should be to get them growing as quickly as possible.
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Pinching: Pinching is an important cultural operation in the successful production of top quality carnations. After planting, the cutting continues to grow a main stem. If left unpinched, this main stem produces a “Crown flower”. Pinching means to remove the head of this main stem at an early stage. This allows the side shoots to develop. These shoots produce the first flush. Pinching involves breaking out the head of the cutting by bending , leaving 6 pairs of leaves (internodes). The easiest time to break the top of the cutting is in the morning when the cutting is still fresh and fully turgid. The plants are usually pinched for the first time about 3 weeks after planting. Immediately after pinching it is good to make a spray treatment with Captaf or Bavistin ‐ (0.1%).
Disbudding: The practice of removing undesirable immature flower buds to provide either a small number of large flowers or large number of small flowers is called disbudding. Only the central terminal bud is removed in case of spray carnations to encourage lateral flower buds to develop. Identifying which bud to remove often confuses the beginner. Identification is easiest at an early stage, when the terminal bud is just showing some first color. From standard carnations, the side buds have to be removed to give main flower a chance to develop. Care must be taken to avoid any injury to the main stem.
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Standard Carnation Spray Carnation Crop handling:
It is very important to raise the nets at the right time. Raising too soon makes picking very difficult. Raising too late allows the crop to fall to one side. Once this happens, stems bend and crop losses are inevitable. Watch the crop carefully and raise the nets a little at a time. Netting is a priority job, even when you are very occupied in the middle of a flush. Shoots growing into the path have to be tucked back into the netting. If not, it will reduce your production. It is advisable to maintain 5 to 6 strong shoots per cutting for good quality of the flower. Extra shoots should be removed.
General Fertigation Schedule:
1. A soil analysis is to be msde before planting. 2. If there are no big excesses or shortness, a base dressing is to be applied to the soil per 100m2 of : 2.0 kg ‐ Biozyme granuals 2.5 kg – 12:61:0 5 kg – 12:6:18
2.2 kg – Ca(NO3)2
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2.5 kg – MgSO4 0.250 kg – Borax 3. Right after planting: 3 weeks clean water (no fertilizers). The roots are not able yet to absorb any nutrition. 4. From the 4th week onwards NPK and Calcium Nitrate are to be applied in suitable quantities. 5. It is to be noted that small amount on a frequent basis is better than large amounts of fertilizers. It is better to give something every day. The ideal water EC during generative growth should be around 1.6 ms/cm. The above is to be continued until the end of the first flower production peak. Then clean water is to be given for one full week, no fertilizers. The soil is to be washed and got rid of excess nutrients. Grading and packing: (Quality standards for flowers)
Stems should not be damaged by pest, disease or handling, chemical deposit should be unobstructive.
Flower should be at a uniform stage of development within the box, not immature or over mature.
Flowers must be cut at opening stage appropriate to time of year.
The main stem should be of sufficient strength so that the flower can be held upright with little bending. A range of polythene, polypropylene and paper sleeves is available. A good quality sleeves should protect the bunch from damage and enhance the appearance. Perforated sleeves are generally used. Flowers need to be cooled before sleeving. One should use good quality box, pack firmly, fill the box completely, but keep the heads away from the end of the box. Packing: After grading and treatment with a flower preservative, the flowers are packed in bunches and sleeved in plastic sleeves or paper sleeves, according to the demand of the buyer. The standard carnations are packed in a bunch of 20 flowers and spray
76 carnations of 10 flowers. Box used for packing is of size 98X30X12cm. Generally 300 flowers are packed per box. Good flower is: Stem length : 80cm Bud size : 8 to 10cm circumference Duration of the crop: 24months First flowering : 3.5 to 4 months after plantation Yield : 200flowers/Sq. M. (20plants/Sq. M.) PHALAENOPSIS
Introduction: Phalaenopsis belongs to the largest family in the plant kingdom, the Orchids (Orchidaceae). It represents just one genus, with approximately 50 different species, including the well – known white Phalaenopsis amabilis. The Phalaenopsis generic name means Moth like, and is derived from the Greek phalaina (moth) and Opsis (similar). The flower structure of Phalaenopsis orchid is characterized by the figure three, three sepals, three petals and a triangular ovary. These plants exhibit a monopodal form of growth (no lateral shoots), whereby the main stem continues to grow throughout the year and only one spray of flowers can develop from each leaf axils. Phalaenopsis has fleshy and distichous leaves.
Climate:
A. Temperature: The phalaenopsis is a tropical plant and it requires temperature range between 15 to 32OC. It is necessary to maintain average temperature of 26 to 27OC during the growth phase, 19 to 21OC during flowering phase. A temperature drop up to 18OC is required for spike induction.
B. Relative humidity: An ideal range of relative humidity is 60 to 80 per cent. However high relative humidity with high temperature increases the risk of bacterial diseases.
C. Light intensity: The provision of sufficient light during the cultivation is of importance to development of suitable foliage and roots. Excessive light intensity will results in burning of the foliage. Inadequate light intensity
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results in straggly and poor quality plants, with an inadequate spray and insufficient root development. Following light intensity at the level of the plants can be employed for various phases of cultivation;
Growing: 5000 to 8000 lux
Flowering: 8000 to 15000 lux
D. CO2: Phalaenopsis is a CAM plant (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism), which
means that it takes up CO2 at night, this is in contrast to most other plants,
which takes up CO2 during the day. CO2 requirement is between 600 to 800 ppm.
Benches: Growing of phalaenopsis usually takes place on open benches that have good air circulation.
4m
4m 0.6m 1.2m 0.6m 0.6m
Pots: Phalaenopsis growing should take place in transparent pots. Transparent pots will ensure a more active growth and better root quality. Generally, white coloured transparent pots of two different sizes are recommended for growing phalaenopsis.
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9” 5”
4” 7”
5” top diameter pot with 9” top diameter pot with 11lit capacity 6 litcapacity
Potting Media: Selection of media is very important to ensure proper retention and distribution of water and nutrients as well as drainage of excess water. The media should provide firm support to plants. Hence coconut fibres along with coco peat are frequently used as a media for phalaenopsis.
For 5” pot coco peat requirement is 85g (1.1lit).
For 9” pot coco fibre and coco peat requirement is 175g and 500g (6lit.), respectively. Shadow hall for phalaenopsis cultivation: As phalaenopsis requires low temperature for flower production. It can be maintained under shadow hall.
Top shade net 75%
1m Poly film
Side shade net 50% 3m Gutter
4m
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Specification: 1. Total height: 4m 2. Gutter height: 3m 3. Top Shade net: 75% green or white 4. Side shade net: 50% green 5. Plastic: 200micron 6. Bay size: 4x4m Advantages: 1. Better cooling efficiency because light intensity gets reduced before reaching to plastic. 2. Effective cross ventilation due to nets on side. 3. No need to run foggers quite often as temperature remains low due to better air circulation than normal green house. Hence this avoids disease attack. 4. No direct watering on the plants, which will help to minimize burning, corking and salt deposition on leaves and flowers. 5. Cost effective than naturally ventilated poly houses. Planting: Initially planting is done in 5” pots filled with only coco peat. After 6
months plants are transferred to 9” pot, which contains bottom layer of coco fibre
and top layer of coco peat.
Irrigation: As phalaenopsis is grown on very porous substrate, it is important to
supply the water to the crown portion by using sprinkler. The water must be free
from any harmful chemicals or contamination. The quantity of water required by
the plants depends on climate, substrate and the age of crop. The irrigation system
must be capable of supplying between 5 to 12 liters of water per meter per hour. It
is very important to ensure that plants are provided with appropriate drainage.
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Irrigation Layout
1 mt. Misters (40 LPH) Lateral line
Table 2.3.3 :Water quality standards for Phalaenopsis
Quality Sodium Chlorine Bicarbonate Calcium pH EC Mmol ppm Mmol ppm Mmol ppm Mmol ppm (mS/ per lit per lit per lit per lit cm) Good <6.5 <0.5 <1.0 23 <1.0 35 <0.5 <31 <1.0 <40 Accep 6.5‐ 0.5‐ 1‐3 23‐69 1‐3 35‐ 0.5‐1 31‐62 1‐2 40‐80 table 7.2 1.0 105 Poor >7.2 >1.0 >3 >69 >3 >105 >1 >62 >2 >80 Source : Growing manuals of www.kfbioplants.com
Fertilizers: Nutritional composition for Phalaenopsis.These values are calculated in relation with 100 % rain water.
Table 2.3.4 : Nutritional composition for Phalaenopsis
Main Element Trace Element Nutritional Mmol/lit. Ppm (mg/lit.) Nutritional µmol/lit. Ppm (mg/lit.) Element Element + ++ NH4 1.6 29 Fe 16 0.89 K+ 3.5 137 Mn++ 3.0 0.16 Ca++ 1.3 52 B 10 0.11 Mg++ 0.4 10 Zn++ 3.0 0.20 ‐ ++ NO3 6.2 384 Cu 2.0 0.13 ‐ SO4 0.4 13 Mo 1.0 0.10 P‐ 1.5 47 Source : Growing manuals of www.kfbioplants.com
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Table 2.3.5 :Standard Fertilizer solutions for the Phalaenopsis
(Concentration 100 times in 1000 lit. water)
A‐Tank solution
Sr. No. Nutrient 1 Calcium Nitrate 28 Kg 2 Ammonium Nitrate 12.8 Kg 3 Iron chelate (DTPA) 3% 3 Kg 4 Potassium Nitrate 3.5 Kg B‐Tank solution Sr. No. Nutrient
1 Potassium Nitrate (KNO3) 16.5 Kg
2 Mono Potassium Phosphate (KH2PO4) 21 Kg
3 Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) 10 Kg 4 Borax 100 gm 5 Manganese Sulphate 55 gm 6 Zinc Sulphate 55 gm 7 Copper Sulphate 50 gm 8 Na‐Molybdate 25 gm Source : Growing manuals of www.kfbioplants.com
Flower Production: On an average there are 12 plants per square meter. The complete growing period is approximately 5 years. Generally flower production starts 8 months after plantation. In order to obtain high quality production, it is important that the plants are large enough (it should have 5 adult leaves) and pots have good root system before harvesting of flowers.
Premature Flowering: The premature flowers will need to be removed during growing phase. If this is done immediately flower stick will till be soft and can be pinched off. If however the flower stick is little older it will need to be cut away. The minimum temperature to limit premature flowering during growing phase should be 270C.
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Harvesting and Yield: The phalaenopsis flower stem are supported with stick when flower buds begin to swell. The branches are harvested when the last flower is still in bud.
Average flower production is 6 to 7 stems per plant per year.
Post Harvest and Packaging: After harvesting stems are kept in bucket containing water and stored under a temperature between 7 to 100C. The vase life varies between 5 days to 6 weeks depending on climate and variety.
The flowers are packed in single used boxes that have dimensions of 100x15x11.5cm. Depending on the number of flowers per stem, 25 to 30 stems are packed per box13. 2.4: Floriculture as an alternative source of livelihood in the Region Indian floriculture, over the years, has groomed itself from a backyard gardening activity into a commercially viable enterprise. Its origin as an important income generating activity by small farmers laid the foundation for an economically viable diversification option for corporates in the agribusiness sector. Floriculture promises sustainable livelihood. It not only ensures present occupation and earnings but also makes way for scope of employment and income opportunities in the future. Floriculture offers various career options for both the skilled and unskilled sector. The employment opportunities in this field are as varied as the nature of work itself. One can work as farm or estate managers, plantation experts and supervisors, project coordinators etc. Employment may be generated in research, training and marketing of floriculture products. Teaching, Research and posts of Extension scientists/teachers are prospective areas of work in all State Agricultural Universities and National Agricultural Research System. One can also work as consultant or landscape architect with proper training. Service career opportunities may be created by floriculture to serve as floral designers, ground keepers, landscape designers and horticultural therapists. Attractive avenues for self‐employment can be worked out. As floriculture offers its aspirants good growth prospects, one can become an entrepreneur himself and offer employment to others.
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Floriculture is not limited only to commercial production of cut flowers, ornamental plants etc. but also creates scope for subsidiary agro‐business like export/import, nursery and seed production, organic manure production and agro industries like manufacturing of horticulture implements, drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, bio fertilizers, tissue culture, modern packaging etc. All these in turn, create a huge potential for sustainable employment generation, both directly and indirectly. The cut flower industry makes an important contribution to the economy. Cut flower industry provides important contributions to fertilizer and agricultural chemical industry since it is an intensive agricultural production activity by having short‐term production, requiring intensive fertilizer and plant protection techniques. Packaging is one of the most important elements in post harvest processes for cut flower products. During supplying of products to market and for transport, lots of packaging material originated from cellulose and plastic is used, by this way cut flower industry also provides an important contribution to this industry. When such industries flourish, they open up more avenues of gainful employment. Multiple livelihood opportunities under floriculture can lead to income enhancement by utilizing local strength and resources. Being economically rewarding, it can be used to attract and retain educated young men and women in rural areas. As an effective tool for employment generation, a production plant may employ people from nearby villages. For the needy and unemployed people from villages as well as hilly areas where alternate source of employment is inadequate, such sources of earnings are welcome. Thus, this proves to be a boon both for the employer and the employee. A self‐employed youth can initiate with a humble effort of growing flowers for his living. Fresh flowers may then be delivered door‐to‐door on a regular basis in nearest towns or developing cities where the ascending disposable income of the increasing population and diminishing space for homestead flower gardens, keeps the demand for flowers soaring. This kind of low scale flower business can be kept simple, with little investment and with no interference of a middleman. Professional entrepreneurs owning state‐of‐the‐art showrooms may also cash in the latest floriculture developments. Their business can be diversified from a traditional flower business of artificial and natural flower arrangement to exotic flower
84 decorations and even venturing into online marketing, taking assignments of flower decoration in gorgeous functions, both public and private, in and outside their state. Instead of a seasonal occupation, floriculture has now diversified to become a rewarding business that is operational round the year. Till recently, entrepreneurs in floriculture in areas of East and Northeast Himalayas had to depend mainly on outside markets like Kolkata, Siliguri and Bangalore for fresh flowers. But presently, most of the species of cut flowers, loose flowers and bulbous flowers having high market demand are now available locally to a large extent. The ever‐increasing demand for flowers in urban growth centres has also encouraged quite a few commercial flower growers in many East and North‐eastern states. Floriculture is a labour‐intensive activity. Even a modest floriculture programme can generate millions of jobs, predominately for young women, quite apart from significantly contributing to national income. One of the significant peculiarities of the floriculture industry’s employment pattern is the significant inclusion of women because of their manual skills, abilities in terms of innate, fine and developed aesthetic sense and delicacy. By and large, women are engaged in cultivation, harvesting and post harvesting activities including packaging while men perform activities linked to pre‐ cultivation, maintenance of nurseries, irrigation and fumigation since these involve hard work and health and safety considerations. A preference for women labour in production work is based on the argument that floriculture is similar to childcare where women ensure the responsibility for the entire process of growth. Considering the potential of floriculture in generating higher levels of income, employment opportunity, greater involvement of women farmers and increase in exports, it has been identified as an extreme focus area by the Government of India.14
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NOTES and REFERENCES :
1. www.planingcommission.nic.in 2. Floriculture for Rural Economy in North East” www.news.oneindia.in, Jan 29 2007 3. Ibid 4. Meghalaya Agriculture Profile 2006, 3rd Edition, Department of Agriculture, Meghalaya. 5. Ibid 6. Operational Holding is “all land which is used wholly or partly for agricultural production and is operated as one technical unit by one person alone or with others without regard to title, legal form, size or location” is taken as statistical unit for data collection in Agriculture Census. 7. www.wikipedia.com 8. Horticultural Boom in Nagaland, Dr K.G.Karmakar, Managing Director and Dr G.D.Banerjee, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, H.O, Mumbai. 9. Ibid 10. Ibid 11. Ibid 12. Chishi. H. , “Naga youth say it with flowers”, The Telegraph, August 30, 2011. 13. www.kfbioplants.com 14. “Socio Economic implication and opportunities for women in floriculture”, R.C. Upadhyaya, ‘Floriculture Today’ Magazine, October 2009.
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Chapter III: Problems of Floriculture in East and North‐East Himalayas 3.1: Social background versus modern attitude towards floriculture India has a long tradition of floriculture but earlier it was simply regarded as a backyard gardening activity yielding flowers for home decoration or religious offerings. Despite long and close association with flowers, instances of commercial cultivation of flowers could be rarely cited. However, over a period of time floriculture evolved into a commercially viable enterprise but this being a recent development is still maimed by facts that there are still not many large farms practising organised floriculture and that cultivation of flowers is carried out on small holdings, mainly as a part of the regular agriculture systems.
A conducive and diverse climate in India supports the production of a wide variety of flowers the whole year round. Labour in the country being cheap, the cost of production of flowers remains low. Consumers are lucky to avail themselves of varied range of flowers of standard quality at prices that suit their budget. Such flowers are valued highly in international trade thereby expanding the export market of the country. Floriculture is a novel concept in the Indian agri‐business and is in the process of spreading its roots and laying its foundation as an economically viable diversification in agriculture. The new status of floriculture in the Indian economy is being steadily accepted and acknowledged.
The government also has, during the last few years, recognized floriculture as an important segment for developmental initiatives. Model Floriculture Centres being set up in 11 major production zones, to serve as focal units for development in the region, have a mandate of making available quality planting material, new/improved production technologies and also to provide training in production and post harvest management. There are also special government programmes for area expansion in floriculture with state assistance. The National Horticulture Board, a major developmental agency for horticulture, also makes available finances as soft loan for setting up integrated projects for production and marketing. The government is investing in improving the infrastructure for marketing in the domestic sector.
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Production of cut flowers for exports is also a thrust area for support. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the nodal organization for promotion of agri‐exports including flowers, has introduced several schemes for promoting floriculture exports from the country. These relate to development of infrastructure, packaging, market development, air freight subsidy etc. The 100% Export Oriented Units are also given benefits like duty free imports of capital goods. All these efforts indicate the government’s commitment for improving the sector and creating a positive environment for entrepreneurship development in the field.1 With a professional approach, floriculture has proved to be a prosperous occupation in different parts of India. Its origin as an important income generating activity by small farmers laid the foundation for an economically viable diversification option for corporates in the agribusiness sector. But in most areas of East and North‐east Himalayas, floriculture is still fairly untapped by farmers and entrepreneurs, who have failed to realise its benefits as an attractive option for agricultural diversification. Fortunately, welcome changes can now be observed to be slowly setting in. Infrastructure parks are being set up with polyhouses, grading and sorting rooms, cold rooms, training centres – all under one roof. Research institutes are offering the required support for scientific cultivation of flowers. Small growers with limited resources are warming up to the concept of hi‐tech floriculture. Formation of growers’ association or cooperatives is being encouraged to bring down the cost of post‐harvest management and marketing. Growth and development of the accessories market is directly contributing to value addition of the farmers’ produce. Expansion and diversification of the consumption basket of consumers is being brought about by the varied range and superior quality of flowers that are direct positive results of commercial floriculture. Regular seminars and farmers’ meets conducted by the government are helping the simple and naïve farmers to understand the benefits of commercial floriculture better and opt for a cost effective technology. These endeavours are encouraging farmers to consider floriculture as a viable diversification from traditional crops thereby enabling the growers to earn higher returns.
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The idea is to bring awareness at the grass root level by educating farmers about the net returns that he is likely to receive from hi‐tech floriculture so that he can overcome the dilemma of converting from traditional agriculture to commercial floriculture. The importance of ‘trickle‐down effect’ from the progressive to the unskilled labour is to be highlighted in a systematic and organized manner. The unskilled labour is then aware of the pros and cons of commercial floriculture and inspired to start his own cultivation as an alternate source of income. Farmers at present are totally dependent on the government schemes to sustain their cultivation. As long as the government keeps providing their infrastructure, planting materials, fertilizers and pesticides as subsidies, they are satisfied. But the moment the subsidies stop, they are at a loss as to how to continue with the process. They are not progressive in nature and fail to come up with innovative ideas of their own such as coming forward to invest in commercial floriculture with the assistance of the banking sector. Their conservative thought‐process bars them from innovating by introducing new technology in their mode of cultivation that can earn them better yield and returns. They also get suspicious of officials who come forward to help them and in doing so, ask them too many questions. If at all they achieve success in their venture, they are not willing to share their positive experience with other farmers, which directly hampers the further spread of floriculture. Initially, some early starters in the floriculture industry indigenised their technological needs like polyhouses and parent plant material and developed local cultivation and post‐ harvest techniques. But a new entrepreneur essentially needs to import the correct technology in the beginning. This raises the project cost. Indigenous technology for greenhouse/ glass/ poly/ shade in keeping with Indian climatic conditions, raw materials and technical know‐how can prove to be a relief while trying to achieve development in technology. Attractive packaging and value addition is a popular form of non‐price competition that empowers an innovative entrepreneur to gain competitive advantage. So he always needs to be abreast current packaging practices and learn from the success of other regions in India. Floriculture cannot be adopted simply as a commercial venture, with no sincere commitment. Just the love of flowers is not sufficient to drive a floriculturist who needs
89 to gain highly specialized knowledge and skill to operate a floriculture project. It being both labour‐intensive and capital‐intensive, good plant management and marketing skills need to be coupled with the knowledge of changes that are required to be brought about in cultivation methods. These are the prerequisites of a successful floriculturist for whom floriculture, once started with the initial aim of attaining commercial benefit, down the line, transforms into a passion that he grows to live with. 3.2: Credit Gap For floriculture to grow and flourish, two aspects are to be taken care of – technical and financial. The technical aspect is managed by local bodies like State Department of Agriculture. The financial aspect is followed up through bank credit in friendly terms. To encourage floriculture, there are government schemes that facilitate loans. But socio‐ economic problems can pose as a hurdle. Farmers, when ignorant and illiterate, might not be enthusiastic in approaching local banks and financial institutions for credit in fear of undergoing the associated formalities and cumbersome paperwork that they are averse to. Under the existing banking norms of credit, collateral security also projects as one of the biggest hindrances, particularly in rural areas. It is mandatory for the farmers to realise that in an industry as heavily dependent on capital, it is impossible to go ahead without credit. If at all the initial hiccup of taking loan from a bank is cured, there exists the perennial problem of its repayment on time. Commonly, simple and innocent farmers who are eager to sell their produce at remunerative prices, easily fall prey to opportunistic middlemen. They lure them in season time by promising to buy their produce at high prices but ruthlessly abandon them during off season. Confronted by financial crisis, the farmers are left with no other choice but to take recourse to distress sale and being pushed to further debts. A vicious cycle then follows. The farmers may be further exploited by a number of counterfeit companies operating under the brand names of international giants who promise to supply hybrid varieties of seeds, planting materials, plastic sheets for greenhouses etc. at high prices but fail to deliver the desired quality. Thus the farmer’s investment becomes futile when greenhouses supposed to last for quite a few years or seeds guaranteed to produce a certain volume of flowers, prove to end up far from reality, causing immense hardship
90 for the farmer to repay his debt. A back‐up in the shape of any insurance cover is also non‐existent that can safeguard him against adverse situations. They remain unaware of the importance of insurance and so any abrupt jolt in the form of say collapse of the greenhouse in a violent storm or such unforeseen circumstances, appear as too hard a blow for them to bear. Economic instability of this kind makes them averse to hi‐tech floriculture. The farmers tend to fall into a debt trap with little or no hope of recovery. Such credit gaps make the ardent efforts and the expenditure of the NHM on horticulture and floriculture, a fruitless endeavour. 3.3: Logistic Gap The existing infrastructure in most areas of East and North‐east Himalayas prove to be highly inadequate in many ways for the development of Commercial Floriculture. The low technological base and limited market infrastructure, meagre storage facilities and improper means of transport are not conducive to the growth and development of floriculture. The role played by Government Departments like the Department of Horticulture/Agriculture of the State Governments is highly inadequate.2 Other serious problems like insurgency and political instability alienates the participation of the private sector in many of these areas. A major constraint in promotion of horticulture and floriculture is the transportation network of the area. The high cost of road transportation and highly inadequate railway network acts as a hindrance to the development of this sector. The region has poor air linkages and lacks favourable air cargo space. The airfreight rates are exorbitantly high making the service economically unviable. The awareness about availability of Government schemes is very poor and needs to be publicized effectively for the benefit of the traders and farmers.3 Further the rail network in the Northeastern States is also not very extensive and requires multiple trans‐shipments for transporting goods through railways. The hilly terrain of the area creates huge problems in transporting the produces from the fields to the small markets and further transportations within as well as outside the country.4 The inadequate transport facilities and difficult terrain are the hugely responsible for the very low level of commercial horticulture in these areas. There are a number of national highways in the region connecting the State capitals and the State highways
91 and other roads connect the district headquarter and towns. However, the condition of these roads is very poor and gets worse during the long monsoon seasons. The distance of majority of these States from Guwahati or Kolkata is long and transporting of goods from these States to them is very expensive. The distance from State capitals of the Northeastern States to Guwahati and Kolkata is provided at Table 3.3.1.5 Table 3.3.1 :Distance from State Capital to (in Kms)
Distance from State Capital to (in Kms) STATE GUWAHATI KOLKATA Arunachal Pradesh 420 1502 Assam ‐ 1081 Manipur 484 1565 Meghalaya 100 1181 Mizoram 466 1547 Nagaland 339 1420 Sikkim 589 720 Tripura 599 1680
Source: Basic Road Statistics, Department of Road Transport and Highways, GOI
Table 3.3.2 : The status of road network in the Northeastern States
Status of Road Network State Total Surfaced UnSurfaced % Of Road/100 Length Roads Roads Surfaced SqKms In Kms In Kms In Kms Road in Kms Arunachal 18365 5689 12676 30.97 % 21.93 Pradesh Assam 80486 12882 76604 14.40 % 114.06 Manipur 11434 3863 7571 33.78 % 51.21 Meghalaya 9565 6560 3005 68.58 % 42.64 Mizoram 5075 2877 2198 56.69 % 24.07 Nagaland 21021 6451 14570 30.69 % 126.79 Sikkim 2019 1546 473 76.57 % 28.45 Tripura 16296 4393 11903 26.96 % 155.40
Source: Basic Road Statistics, Department of Road Transport and Highways, GOI
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The railway network in the Northeastern States is also very poor and majority of the areas are not connected in these States. The status of rail network in the NER is provided at Table3.3.3 :
Table 3.3.3: Railway Network in the North East Region
Railway Network in the North East Region State Broad Gauge Meter Gauge Narrow Gauge Total(Kms) (Kms) (Kms) (Kms) Arunachal ‐‐ 1.27 ‐‐ 1.27 Pradesh Assam 902.94 1470.58 ‐‐ 2373.52 Manipur ‐‐ 1.35 ‐‐ 1.35 Meghalaya ‐‐ ‐‐ ‐‐ ‐‐ Mizoram ‐‐ 1.50 ‐‐ 1.50 Nagaland 7.63 5.22 ‐‐ 12.85 Sikkim ‐‐ ‐‐ ‐‐ ‐‐ Tripura ‐‐ 44.72 ‐‐ 44.72
Source: NEDFI Data Bank 2009‐2010
The status of air facilities in the region is not upto the mark either. The L.G.B. international airport at Guwahati has recently commenced some international flights also along with a number of domestic flights. Very small cargo space is available in the domestic flights connecting to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The other domestic airports in the region are at Imphal, Dimapur, Tezpur, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Lilabari, Silchar and Agartala etc. However the capacities to carry cargo are minimal on these sectors and are of not much use to the development of floriculture.6 Floriculture industry is highly technical and scientific. It requires regular and adequate supply of power and water for the operation of different machines and equipments for the functioning of drip irrigation systems. But large areas of East and North‐east Himalayas suffer from the absence of electricity. Rainwater harvesting is sadly not taken recourse to during the monsoon months, when abundant rainwater can be stored and used effectively in the dry season, thereby making irrigation a tough task to achieve during summer.
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It is observed that most of the selected farmers under various schemes have the inputs but are often based in remote and interior parts of the locality which is not easily accessible. In such cases, it has been observed that all materials have to be carried by head load for setting up of the infrastructure. Besides, in the monsoon months these areas become practically inaccessible. For hi‐tech floriculture, land needs to be flattened before setting up of polyhouse and other infrastructure. Due to its inaccessibility, it is often left to the village farmers and his colleagues to level and flatten the land. This may take an enormous amount of time which otherwise could have been easily done with the help of ‘earth‐moving’ equipments. Considering the fact that the farmer overcomes the above ‐mentioned obstacles, it becomes a Herculian task to carry his produce to the collection centre on a regular basis. Compared to other farmers who enjoy locational advantage with the collection centre, his enthusiasm in the venture gradually diminishes. Where other parts of the country enjoy ‘transit insurance’7 for their produce, in these areas it is hardly a viable proposition for insurance companies to offer transit insurance to the farmers for their highly perishable commodities. Another very important issue that needs to be looked into is transport subsidy from the government for the farmer to bring his produce from the farm to the collection centre. If both the above facilities are available to the farmer, then the problems of damage of flowers and high transport cost incurred by the farmer before he even sells his produce, are solved. The farmer gets a fair price and is encouraged to produce more. Post‐harvest management is equally important as cultivation of flowers to deliver an attractive product to the consumer. As flowers are highly perishable, speed of delivery is significant along with adequate temperature control measures during transit. Here lies the necessity and importance of proper infrastructure facilities in the form of cold chains, testing and cargo handling facilities etc. There is need for suitable infrastructure at airports including perishable cargo handling facilities. The post‐ harvest losses are a major drawback in terms of lack of proper storage, transportation and a smooth procurement process. To alleviate this problem, the Government provides large amount of subsidies in infrastructure development. It is important for the farmers to be aware of international
94 brands that provide post‐ harvest solutions as sometimes even if farmers are able to afford such facilities they fail to do so, being unaware of the available technology. 3.4: Communication gap between the Government and the farmers With a view to improve the socioeconomic conditions in backward regions of East and North‐east Himalayas, the Government takes up special initiatives in the form of various schemes – a boost in the floriculture sector acting as a noteworthy tool in this endeavour. But for such efforts to bear fruits and continue to function smoothly, the correct degree of coordination and communication between the Government and the farmers is an essential prerequisite. A lapse in this link is a threat in achieving the desired level of success. It may be pointed out that Agricultural Universities and Research Institutes carry out experiments and research on the cultivation of new and different varieties of plants but these studies often remain confined within the laboratories and unfortunately fail to reach the land and the growers on it. The farmers fail to derive any advantage out of the results of the experiments that the Government chooses to conduct by spending precious time, money and energy for the primary purpose of benefitting the farmers. The Government may also prove to be careless in not planning well to have the experimented crop tested in the conditions that they are supposed to be grown, before actually cultivating them. Such mistakes have been committed in crops like Lisianthus in Minkre in East Jaintia Hills and in case of Anthurium in Dimapur. As a result, the growers could attain neither the desired crop quality nor the expected volume of output. Thus, there are chances of either underproduction so that the farmer is unable to cover the project cost or overproduction when they are forced to opt for distress sale and face disappointing returns. Growers, who mainly depended on loans taken from banks to initiate their project, miserably fail to honour timely repayment and their economic sustainability is jeopardised. For a systematic method of cultivation, first a group of farmers from a locality are to be selected with the help of local administration and the village headman. Then these selected farmers need to have access to adequate land, water, power and electricity. Next, these selected farmers are to be made aware of the salient features of the project through meetings organised by the government. In these meetings, the District officials,
95 the service provider and the farmers discuss the individual roles of these three key‐ players of the model. The farmer should be made aware of his/her role vis‐a‐vis contribution towards the project in terms of land, labour, power, water and so on. The service provider’s role is to provide technical inputs namely polyhouses, drip irrigation, planting materials, fertilizers etc. and technical transfer in the form of periodical farmers’ trainings at various stages of implementation of the project, not forgetting the buy‐back of produce at a predetermined price as fixed by the national price index. The Horticultural Department’s role is to monitor the progress, quality of inputs, time frame, and commitment of the farmers etc. in order to complete the project as per the norms. It is suggested that an MOU be signed between the farmers and the service providers, with the Department being the monitoring agency. A lack of synchronisation in the above chain, particularly the negligence in conducting periodical trainings/meets of farmers, results in serious disorder and irregularities in the form of poor quality flowers, lower remuneration to the farmers and other disappointments that cause the entire model to fail. The Government needs to take special care to ensure that that a farmer is convinced of better returns when facing a dilemma over whether he should switch from a traditional mode of agriculture to a new concept of hi‐tech floriculture. Therefore, a proper communication between the Government and the grower with respect to imparting knowledge and training facilities at the correct time can help to strike the right chord in the rhythm of cultivation. To help develop floriculture, the government offers soft loans to prospective investors on easy terms. But farmers from humble socioeconomic backgrounds often suffer from a low morale. Their ignorance and illiteracy, many a times, further dampen their spirit to approach local banks and financial institutions for loans. The associated formalities and cumbersome paperwork scare them away from utilizing the financial assistance offered to them by the Government. It is essential for the needy farmer to realise that to survive in the floriculture industry, which is heavily dependent on capital, one has little option but to settle for credit facilities. It is only to the farmer’s own advantage to understand the importance of credit and make timely use of the financial schemes floated by the Government to suit his requirements. Both the Government and the
96 growers need to take two steps forward to bridge the credit gap so that a shortfall in the name of financial constraint can be erased. A further notable feature which exists in these regions is the improper or unsystematic utilisation of inputs offered and infrastructure provided by the Government. For example, a perishable cargo complex has been built at Bagdogra Airport Terminal in the year2005 and has been lying unutilised ever since. This setup is only a part of a cold chain with other components not in place. The proper utilisation of any cold chain would be to carry the farmers’ produce from the production units to the retailing points. What is observed here is the part of the cold chain that is supposed to carry the produce from the farmers’ field to the perishable cargo complex does not exist, therefore the perishable cargo complex at the airport lies unutilised. Secondly, due to a lack of proper communication of inputs like the quantity of perishable cargo etc between the State Governments of the region and the Central agencies, this part of the cold chain remains non‐functional. It is quite pertinent that proper communication between farmers and District Officials, then from the District Officials to State level and thereafter from the State level to the Centre be properly established and data collected before setting up such infrastructure where farmers are ultimately unable to make use of them. The subsidies given by the State Governments to the farmers in most of these districts are all of the ‘Front Aided’8 types. In such cases the farmers are hugely benefitted by the scheme but only for the first year. After the project is complete and in the following year, most of the farmers abandon or lose interest in these projects given to them. The most notable reason behind this is the fact that once the subsidy is given to them before the project is over, they become totally dependent on Government aid. So when the time comes for them to invest in plant management practices and purchase of fertilizers and pesticides, they find it difficult to continue. The success of any Government scheme given to the farmer depends upon how well the District Officials are able to explain and communicate to the farmers, the pros and cons of such a scheme. This is a vital input required for the success of any scheme, followed by strict monitoring of District Officials on the farms.
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Finally, it may be pointed out that floriculture should emerge as an attractive alternate source of income when compared to traditional farming. When this becomes a reality, it can be concluded that the subsidy scheme is a success – the Government correctly provides the initial push to the farmers by way of a one‐time subsidy after which the farmer should be able to grow and use his own means and finances to expand and prosper. 3.5: Agronomy support Soil agronomy is the most important aspect in any commercial floriculture venture. If taken at the micro level, one should start with a proper selection of farmers who have land to cultivate cut flowers. This land should have the following features: Firstly, the land should be cultivable i.e. it should be fertile enough to support floriculture and be devoid of tree stubs, rocks, stones etc. Secondly, the gradient of land should be more or less flat or could be in the form of terraces which can be accommodated inside the polyhouse. Agronomy pertains to soil and crop management practices. As most cut flowers cultivated in these regions use soil as the growing medium, hence it is absolutely necessary to fumigate the soil before plantation. Further, soil analysis for EC (Electric Conductivity) and pH level along with other mineral contents are to be carried out. Care has to be taken that the pH of soil should remain between 4.5 and 6, slightly on the acidic side. It should be noted here that soil agronomy remains a vital factor as soil‐borne diseases like Rootrot, Crownrot, Nematodes etc to name a few, can cause immense damage and may kill the plant thereby affecting productivity. Further, monitoring of the mineral content of soil could lead to less use of soluble fertilizers. Management of soil varies depending upon the variety of flower to be cultivated. Let us take the examples of Gerbera, Carnation and Phalaenopsis here. Before plantation of both Carnation and Gerbera, disinfection of soil is absolutely necessary. In particular, the fungus Phytophthora is a menace. The various methods of sterilization are: 1. Steam : not feasible for Indian conditions
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2. Solarisation: the soil is to be covered with plastic for 6‐8 weeks. Sunrays heat up the soil which kills most fungi. 3. Chemical : Hydrogen Peroxide with Silver Procedure: The beds are to be wetted with irrigation water of neutral pH and EC less than 0.5mS/cm. In irrigation water, hydrogen peroxide is to be mixed with silver at the rate of 35ml per litre of water (3.5% solution). Since the product is highly reactive and has an oxidizing agent, no other chemical is to be mixed with this. This solution is to be applied uniformly over moist beds using the spout. 1 litre of water is to be used for 1m2 area. The soil need not be covered but left as it is and the crop can be planted after 4 to 6 hours. Advantages of hydrogen peroxide with silver are :‐ 1. Very easy and safe to use without any hazardous effect on human health. 2. Economical 3. Eco friendly and does not produce any phyto toxic effects on plants. 4. Plantation can be carried out 4 to 6 hours after fumigation. 5. Destroys almost any fungal, bacterial and viral presence as well as larva and eggs of the insects in soil. 6. Stable in wide range of temperature and pH. Just like soil agronomy, plant management plays a vital role in crop production. Strict monitoring of health of plant per se disease and pest management may influence the production of flowers in the long run. Regular visits by competent agronomists to farmer units can help in identifying any problem in the crop at an early stage and suitable remedial measures be suggested to check the spread of diseases. Most commonly found pests in floriculture units of these regions are mites, aphids, white flies, caterpillars, leaf miners, thrifts etc. These pests may lead to diseases which they usually carry from other areas to the young plants. Water‐borne diseases are one of the more recent problems noticed in these floriculture units of the region. As most of these units are set up near a common water source such
99 as stream/river/pond, fresh water is often not available. The water used from these sources is often contaminated with various water‐borne diseases which could and usually does cause havoc by bringing in diseases which are many a times not controllable. So, it is suggested that a new aspect of agronomy in the form of water management be undertaken in these regions. Some Service Providers have started adopting rainwater‐harvesting technology in covered storage tanks for the use of irrigation in these units. Pests and Diseases in Gerbera and their Management: Diseases/Pests: Aphids: Cause deformed leaves, excrete some substance on which fungus develops.
Greenhouse Whitefly: It occurs when climate is hot and dry. Feeds on the lower side of leaves, excrete large quantity of honey dew which leads to development of black sooty moulds on the leaves.
Leaf Miner: White specks on leaves caused by flies. White serpentine tunnels in leaves caused by larvae, which stays in soil.
Red Mites: Suck the sap from lower sides of the leaves causing development of brown spots on lower surface of leaves resulting in marginal drying of leaves. Webbing on the flower petals.
Thrips: Causes white specks or stripes on ray florets; flower heads may be deformed. Silvery, greyish spots on the leaves; Brown spots on leaf petioles/midvein.
Caterpillar: Eat leaves voraciously making circular holes in the leaf lamina. It causes white spots on the petals in case of flower attack.
Root knot Nematode:
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Yellowing of leaves, stunted growth of the plant with reduced leaves size, knots on roots. Water logged condition in the green house and muddy water during rainy season are favourable conditions for nematode growth. Diseases:
Crown Rot: Caused by Phytophthora cryptogea results in wilting disease of Gerbera, Crown of the plant becomes black.
Root rot: Caused by Pythium. Initially dropping of younger leaves, finally wilting of the plant. Root skin is easily removed and
Powdery mildew: White powdery growth on the leaf lamina. In case of severe attack, leaves start curling.
Botrytis: Occurs especially when the relative humidity of the air is more than 92% for two hours in the morning – gray spots on the flower petals‐ rot in the heart of flower.
Bacterial blight: Yellowish oily spots on the leaves later turn brown. Brown discolouration along the mid vein. Wilting of flower bud and brown spots on the stems. Table 3.5.1 :Pest Control in Gerbera Pests Suggested Chemicals Concentration per lit.
Whitefly Rogor (Dimethoate) 2 ml
Confidor (Imidacloprid) 0.5 ml
Leaf Miner Chlorpyriphos 1 ml
Thrips Regent (Fipronil) 1.5 ml
Confidor (Imidacloprid) 0.5 ml
Red Mites Pure Water Spray
WettableSulphur 1.5 gm
Magister (Fenazaquin) 1 ml
Catterpiller Lanate (Methomyl) 1.5 gm
Nematode Neem cake 30 to 50 gm/Plant
Hydrogen peroxide 7ml Source: www.kfbioplants.com
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Table 3.5.2 : DISEASE CONTROL IN GERBERA: Diseases Suggested Control Concentration/Litre Root Rot Alliete (Fosetyl Alluminium) 2 gm Bavistin (Carbendazim) 2 gm Crown Rot Alliete (Fosetyl Alluminium) 1.5 gm Blitox (Copper Oxychloride) 1.5 gm Quintol (Iprodion + Carbendazim) 0.5 gm Powdery Mildew Hydrogen Peroxide 2 ml Botrytis Diathane M‐45 ( Mancozeb) 1.5 gm Quintol (Iprodion + Carbendazim) 0.5 gm Source : www.kfbioplants.com Deficiency Sumptoms : 1. Nitrogen: General yellowing starts on older leaves and then moves gradually upward because nitrogen is translocated out of older leaves to the new growth under deficiency. 2. Phosphorus: Brownish discoloration along the vein on underside of old leaves. 3. Potassium: Marginal necrosis of old leaves. 4. Calcium: Extreme yellowing of young leaves. 5. Magnesium: Interveinal chlorosis on older leaves, leaves get thick and crispy. 6. Iron: Interveinal chlorosis on young leaves. Serious deficiency results in a yellowish‐ whitecoloring. 7. Zinc: Chlorosis, one half of leaf blade ceases to expand and develop while other half is normal i.e. C shaped leaf structure. 8. Manganese: Leaves turn yellowish, starting with younger ones; veins remain green, heavychlorosis.
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9. Copper: Chlorosis in younger leaves; flower develops bad. 10. Molybdenum: Chlorosis on the edges of leaves. 11. Boron: Bases of younger leaves are black colored. Pests and Dieseases in Carnation and their Management:
Diseases, pests and disorders:
Prevention is always better than having to cure a crop. Cleanliness, hygiene and the environment are just as important as the prevention, spraying program, which one needs to execute weekly. It is important to realize that disease start in a very small way. Most favourable conditions for fungi are moisture and high humidity. Any moisture on foliage, stems or flowers will allow fungal spores to develop. Good pest and disease control can be obtained by maintaining a routine preventive spraying program. Sprays under relatively slow drying condition, late afternoon or early morning are best. Never spray plants that are weakened by intense sunshine. Plants must at all time be sufficiently turgid. Diseases:
The important diseases of carnation and their possible control measures are described below ‐
Fusarium wilt
The disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum is one of the most serious diseases of carnation.
Symptoms – Wilting of foliage, often only on a few branches followed by death, Rotting of the stem below ground level with internal brown streaking extending up to stem. If pulled, the plant breaks off easily while the firm roots remain in the soil. Infected cuttings wilt and die rapidly. Control measure
The best control measures are soil sterilization or chemical fumigation of the soil, use of pathogen free plants and general sanitation in the greenhouse.
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Rogue and destruction of diseased plants to reduce the source of infection.
Benomyl or Rhidomil @ 2g/lit of water drenching. Rust ‐ Uromycesdianthii Symptoms ‐ Early infections appear as pale green blister like swellings, which erupt releasing reddish to dark brown powdery masses of spores. Postules can be upto 10 cm in length and occur on stems, leaves and calyces. Severely infected leaves may turn yellow and die. The disease is common under warm humid conditions. It reduces plant vigour and quality of cut flower. Control measure
Wet foliage to be avoided
Infected plants to be rogued
A regular preventive spray program using mancozeb @ 1.5g/lit, zineb @ 1g/lit and sulphur @ 1g/lit to be maintained. Stem and root rot ‐ Phytophthora spp. Withering and yellowing of foliage, leaf death, external browning of stems and internal browning at nodes. Stem and root rot may be present. Wet conditions, over watering and badly drained soils favor developments of the disease. Control measure
Over watering and poorly drained soils to be avoided.
Drenching with Benomyl @ 2g/lit or Aliette @ 2.5 gm/lit. Pests: 1) Red Spider Mite ‐ Tetranychusurticae Symptoms: This is most serious pest on carnations. The mites are minute red insects which feed on the undersides of the leaves, suck the sap and eventually the leaves turn pale, withered, bronze and show severe webbing. Plant growth, crop quality, yield and vase life of carnation flowers decreased
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2) Aphids ‐ Myzuspersicae Symptoms: Aphids suck the sap from the leaves and disfigure the young growth. In severe attacks, they leave sticky deposits on the leaves and flower buds. Aphids can be responsible for the transmission of viruses. 3) Thrips ‐ Thripstabaci Symptoms: Thrips also suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and patchy often with black specks and slight wrinkling. They also cause streaks in the flowers making them unmarketable. 4) Root Knot Nematode ‐ Meloidogyne spp. Symptoms: Stunted growth of plants with galls or knot like swellings of various sizes on roots. Leaves are yellow in severe infestations. Table 3.5.3 : PEST CONTROL IN CARNATION: Concentration Pests Suggested Chemicals for Control per lit.
Thrips Regent (Fipronil) 1.5 ml
Confidor (Imidacloprid) 0.5 ml
Red Mites Pure Water Spray
Magister (Fenazaquin) 1 ml
Nematode Neem cake 1kg/Sq. M.
Hydrogen peroxide (D) 7ml
Source : www.kfbioplants.com
Disorders: 1. Boron deficiency: Excessive calyx splitting [the petals are deprived of their support which result into bending down of petals thus, the regularity of shape and structure of the flower are
105 destroyed]. As the bud opens and the petals approach their full size calyx may split down either half or completely.
Brittle stems, cracking off near a leaf joint when getting mature or easy stem breakage while harvesting the flowers.
Note that high potash levels can induce boron deficiency.
The remedy lies in keeping a good balance of nutrients and avoiding over fertilization. Pests and Diseases in Phalaenopsis and their Management:
Diseases:
A. Bacterial disease:
Pseudomonas cattleyae it is most important bacterial disease infecting phalaenopsis.
Symptoms: Disease can be recognized by characteristic brown patches on the leaves, having oily spots, surrounded by yellow rim. Initial infection shows dark pit in the leaf.
Control measure:
. Use of good and healthy planting material.
. Regular rouging of plants. . Adjustment of the amount of nitrogen. . Maintenance of proper relative humidity. . Spraying of Streptocyclin @ 0.3g/lit or Kasu B @ 1.25ml/lit B. Fungal diseases: I. Botrytis: Petal blight is manifested in the form of a large number of small brown spots on the flowers. It is caused by the flowers being wet when evening falls or by an excessively high relative humidity. Control measure . Excess humidity and continuous wetness on the leaves and flowers to be avoided.
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. Spraying with quintal (0.5g/lit of water) II. Fusarium: It causes a black triangular spot with at its edges a yellow reddish discolouration at the base of the old leaf. The leaf falls away completely. Fusarium is often caused when the root collar of the plant has been wet for too long. Control measure: . Excess watering to be avoided . Drenching with Topsin or Roko (2g/lit of water)
C. Root problems: It generally occurs when there is large fluctuation in quantities of nutrient and water as well as in substrate temperature. Excessive irrigation and poor drainage can also cause root necrosis. If roots are unable to provide water and nutrients to plants edges of the leaves become weaker and dull coloured.
Control measure:
. Fluctuations in nutrient and water quality to be avoided
Insect and Pest:
D. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails chew round holes in the young plant parts. It can damage large number of plants within short period of time. Small snails and slugs can also attack root tips.
Control measures:
. Slug pellets in the pots and on ground can control them effectively.
. Metaldehyde 6% @ 0.7g/sq. m.
E. Mites: The red spider mites are found underside of the leaves. They suck the sap from the leaves causes slight deformation and silvery discolouration of the leaves.
Control measures:
. Mites can be controlled by spraying fresh water.
. Karathane (0.5ml/lit) or Kelthane(1ml/lit) or Magister(1ml/lit) or vertimec (0.4ml/lit) to be sprayed.
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F. Caterpillar: It attacks occasionally on young leaves and flowers.
Control measures:
. Spraying with Lannate (1g/lit) or Metasystox (1ml/lit) or Decis (0.5ml/lit)
G. Aphids or scale insect: Brown scales and balsam wooly aphids are found in groups in flower and the leaf as well as in the roots. Hence they are difficult to control by chemical sprays. Aphids can be identify by whitish deposits on the plants and brown scales can be identify by oval lumps on and beneath the leaves. A sticky layer is deposited on plants due to their secretion, which becomes black because of black moulds.
Control measures:
. Racking around plants.
. Soil application of thimet (2g/pot)
. Spraying with Dimethoate (2ml/lit)9
NOTES and REFERENCES:
1. Narendra K. Dadlani, “Cut Flower Production in India”, Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United States, RAP Publication, 1998/14. 2. “Export Potential of Horticultural products for North Eastern States”‐Study conducted by CMI Social Research Centre. 3. Ibid 4. Ibid 5. Ibid 6. Ibid 7. An insurance policy that covers property in transit during a specific trip, being transported by a certain mode of transport. 8. The subsidy that is given at the inception, during or before completion of the project. Such subsidy is either received directly by the farmer or transferred to his bank account. 9. www.kfbioplants.com
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Chapter IV: Marketing Aspect of Floriculture: 4.1: Role of Middlemen A middleman is an intermediary who buys goods from the producer and resells them to the retailer or consumers. Middlemen can play a key role in providing information about the market to the grower. Developments like changes in customer demography, psychology, media habits and the entry of a new competitor or a new brand and changes in customer preferences are some kind of information that all growers want. Since the middlemen are close to the customer and well aware of the market, they can provide such information to better the bargaining power. Sometimes they may take the grower’s produce, give his brand name and then sell it. This helps in diffusing the risks between the grower and the middlemen and also enables the middlemen to be in physical possession of the goods which empowers them to meet customer demand at the very moment it arises. Like every other business venture, the role of the middlemen in the floriculture sector may prove to be harmful. Floriculture is purely based on the market forces of demand and supply during a particular period of time. In certain regions of East and North‐ Eastern Himalayas, it has been observed that the flower season vis‐à‐vis the marriage season is primarily in the winter months and on particular occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day to name a few. It is during such times that the middlemen suddenly appear and lure away the farmers, guaranteeing them higher returns. These middlemen indulge in unfair practices such as going and collecting the flowers from the farmer’s field and giving them a return which is higher than the one offered by the service providers. This practice continues till the season ends only for them to disappear after that leaving the farmers high and dry and with no other option but to go back to the service providers who for obvious reasons do not purchase their flowers anymore. These affected farmers are left with a dilemma of what to do with their flowers during the off‐season. Gradually their interest in the new venture of hi‐ tech floriculture diminishes and the endeavour dooms towards a failure. The manner in which the middlemen infringes into the domain of the service provider and takes away the produce during season time promising higher returns to the hapless farmer and dumping them thereafter during the off season, creates a conflict between
109 the service provider and the farmer. The breach of trust that exists between a farmer and the service provider, who is armed with a MOU with the concerned department and the farmers, is also affected in a big way together with causing immense financial loss. The Government is a mere spectator of such events and unable to take stringent action against such errant farmers which delivers a harsh blow to this system of commercial floriculture. The way forward from such a scenario would be to educate the farmer/farmers’ association about the pros and cons of such short term gains. It should be the farmers’ association’s responsibility to strictly monitor the activity of its members and reprimand any farmer who indulges in such undesirable trade practices. Farmers sometimes get misguided by the potential buyers/middlemen regarding the varieties of flowers they want and time of the year when they are required. Such demands from these so‐called buyers/middlemen can spell disaster to these marginal farmers. The most common scenario is when these farmers start preferring these suggested varieties in their units with disastrous consequences. Most of these preferred varieties cater to tastes and preferences which do not commonly prevail in these regions. So when these so‐called buyers sometimes refuse to purchase these varieties due to less demand, the farmers are left with the only option of trying to sell it locally where the tastes/preferences are quite different, thereby leading to huge losses of these farmers. To escape from such an alarming situation, the farmers try to return to the cultivation of the original varieties that they were growing and more often than not they miss the planting season which adds to the woes of the farmers as these flowers often start blooming in the off season. The farmer is then further pushed into a debt trap from which it is extremely difficult to escape. Hence, the role of such middlemen being so vital for these farmers, care has to be taken by the District Level Officers of the Department of Horticulture to ensure that they be the only guiding factors to these farmers and not the middlemen. 4.2: Cold Chain A cold chain is a temperature‐controlled supply chain. An unbroken cold chain is an uninterrupted series of storage and distribution activities which maintain a given
110 temperature range. It is used to help, extend and ensure the shelf life of products like fresh agricultural produce including horticulture and floriculture, seafood, frozen food, chemicals and pharmaceutical drugs etc. Cold chains are essential for extending the shelf life, period of marketing, avoiding over Capacity, reducing transport bottlenecks during peak period of production and maintenance of quality of produce. The development of cold chain industry has an important role to play in reducing the wastages of the perishable commodities and thus providing remunerative prices to the growers. Developing an integrated supply chain, including cold chain can reduce the wastage of perishable horticulture and floriculture produce.
The cold chain involves the transportation of temperature sensitive products along a supply chain through thermal and refrigerated packaging methods to protect the integrity of these shipments. There are several means in which cold chain products can be transported, including refrigerated trucks and railcars, refrigerated cargo ships as well as by air cargo. But airlines do not prefer to carry cargo which is seasonal, perishable, voluminous yet not in such large quantity. Various industries covered under cold chain are agriculture, horticulture & floriculture, dairy, confectionery, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, poultry, etc. India has around 6300 cold storage units, but can only store less than 11percent of the country's total produce.1 India is bestowed with a varied agro climatic conditions which are highly favourable for growing a large number of horticulture crops such as vegetables, fruits, aromatic plants, herbs and spices, etc. India is among the foremost countries in horticulture production, just behind China. However, despite the rise, India is way behind its nearest rival in per‐ hectare yield and processing of horticulture products. India stores only two percent of its horticulture products in temperature‐controlled conditions, while China stores 15 percent and Europe and North America stores 85 percent of their products in such conditions. Adequate cold storage facilities are available for just about 10 percent of India’s horticulture production. Of the total annual production, 30‐40 percent is wasted
111 before consumption. During the peak production period, the gap between the demand and supply of cold storage capacity is approx. 25 million tonnes.2 Although cold storage capacity of over 30 million tonnes has been created in the country, the concept of cold‐chain is still in its infancy in India. Considering the fact that India is producing about 270 million tonnes of horticulture produce every year, the development of cold‐chain networks assumes high priority. Owing to the tremendous pressure on improving supply chain and reducing losses during produce handling and movement, the need for creation of a cold chain network is crucial for perishable food commodities. Regionally, the existing cold storage capacity is concentrated in terms of both number and capacity in the northern region. Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal contain over 65 percent of the cold storage units in the country and the rest are spread across India. Table 4.2.1 : Region wise Number and Capacity of Cold Storages in India (2011)
CENTRAL EAST/NORTH NORTH SOUTH WEST ALL INDIA
EAST
NUMBER 430(7%) 975(15.8%) 2895(47.0%) 866(14.1%) 990(16.1%) 6156(100%)
CAPACITY 1.71(6.0%) 7.82(27.3%) 14.95(52.1%) 1.95(6.8%) 2.25(7.9%) 28.68(100%)
(Millon
MT)
Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India (2011)
Cold storage in India has been largely adopted for long‐term storage of potatoes, onions and high value crops like apples, grapes and flowers. 75 percent of the cold storage capacity is used to store potatoes, while only 23 percent fall in the multi‐ product category. Cold storages for meat, fish and dairy items and for other items such as chillies and other spices account for only 1 percent of total cold storage capacity. These cold storages are also usually smaller in capacity. Much of this multi‐purpose cold storage capacity is located in the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and in the National Capital Region (NCR).
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Table 4.2.2 : Commodity Wise Break‐up of Cold Storages (as on 31st Dec 2009):
COMMODITY CAPACITY % OF TOTAL NO. OF COLD
(MILLION MT) STORAGES
POTATO 18.43 75.4 2862
MULTIPURPOSE 5.64 23.1 1584
FRUITS & 0.10 0.4 160
VEGETABLES
MEAT & FISH 0.19 0.8 497
MILK/ MILK 0.07 0.3 191
PRODUCTS
OTHERS 0.03 0.1 87
TOTAL 24.46 5381
Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India (2009)
Further enhancement in the cold storage capacity would be very beneficial to both the farmer and the consumer as it minimizes wastages and provides fresher and off‐ seasonal food. The Department of Agriculture and Cooperation is endeavouring to strengthen the supply chain infrastructure including cold chains through various schemes. Some of the most prominent schemes are National Horticulture Mission (NHM) – a centrally sponsored scheme, Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH) – a central sector scheme and National Horticultural Board (NHB) – central sector scheme. National Horticulture Mission: The scheme would be covering following areas: (i) Development of Commercial Horticulture through Production and Post Harvest Management of Horticulture Crops;
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(ii) Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme for construction/ expansion/ modernization of Cold Storages/Storages of Horticulture Produce (iii) Technology Development and Transfer for promotion of horticulture; (iv) Market Information Service for Horticulture Crops; and (v) Horticulture Promotion Service National Centre for Cold Chain Development: NCCD has been mandated to (i) Provide an enabling environment for the cold chain sector to gain prominence and Invite the much needed private sector involvement. (ii) To establish standards and protocols related to cold chain testing, verification, certification and accreditation as per international standards. (iii) To provide technical assistance to Financial Institutions, Government Departments/ agencies, and industry for selection of cold chain component such as refrigeration units, refrigerated transport equipment, display cabinets, milk tanker etc. (iv) To offer HRD and technical advisory services to personnel engaged in this sector.
Extensive regions of East and North‐East Himalayas have a very limited number of cold storages and only a few of them are operational. NHB has funded a few cold storages in the region; Guwahati airport also has a walk‐in–cooler of 15 MT capacities, which is lying inoperative. A same kind of cold storage installed at Agartala airport was also doomed with the same fate. APEDA has provided 100% assistance for purchase of 4 refrigerated trucks in the region for promotion of export of horticulture products. The cost of hiring refrigerated trucks for transporting horticulture produces from Guwahati to the major cities in the country for further exports is very high. At present there are no pre‐cooling or cooling facilities for the produces of the region. In order to exploit the potential of horticultural crops, an efficient cold chain needs to be developed, best done by private enterprises or farmers co‐operatives. 4.3: Market structure The domestic floriculture industry is growing in leaps and bounds. Globalisation and urbanisation have encouraged a huge internal demand for flowers that is growing overtime, not only in size but also in variety and popularity. Thus to cater to the large
114 domestic market, floriculture should be accepted as a viable option to satisfy the needs for domestic consumption. Dr.S.C.Pawar of the Union Ministry of Agriculture while speaking at a function organized by the Rose Society in Pune in the year 2012 said that the Union Government would divert its focus from food grain production to floriculture and horticulture as farmers in India had produced more than enough food grains to ensure food security. He also pointed out that “Approximately 2.4 lakh hectares are under floriculture cultivation in the country at present, with a turnover of more than Rs.1 lakh crores. The return of investment is pretty high here. In even a half‐ acre area, the farmer can turn a profit of 4 or 5 lakhs”3 Narendra K. Dadlani in ‘Cut Flower Production in India’ (1998) highlights the fact that marketing of cut flowers in India is much unorganised at present. In most metropolitan cities, with large market potential, flowers are brought to wholesale markets, which mostly operate in open yards. A few large flower merchants generally buy most of the produce and distribute them to local retail outlets after significant mark up. The retail florist shops also usually operate in the open on‐road sides, with different flowers arranged in large buckets. In the metros, however, there are some good florist show rooms, where flowers are kept in controlled temperature conditions, with considerable attention to value added service. The government is now investing in setting up of auction platforms, as well as organized florist shops with better storage facilities to prolong shelf life.4 The markets in the region are largely unorganized and dominated by the small private traders. The infrastructure, procurement practices and marketing approaches are the major constraints in development of markets in the region. Though the economy of the region is essentially agro‐based with majority of population engaged in agricultural operations, the development of agricultural marketing systems has been very poor and only a very small quantity of marketable surplus is sold in the regulated markets. The basic infrastructure facilities like storage, warehousing and transportations are missing and thereby affect the storage and mobilization of goods. Only a few States have market regulation act and enacted the same and the middlemen in the process take advantage of the farmers’ poor conditions and weak bargaining power. The farmers, in
115 general bring their surplus produce from distant villages to the nearest markets for disposal and at times, not being aware of the prevailing market trends, resort to distress sales.5 Disorganised and unregulated market structure looms as a giant villain in major areas of East and North‐east India. In the absence of mandis in most of these regions, middlemen from outside the locality exploit the farmers who are denied a remunerative price. Farmers are assured with false promises to buy their entire produce. Such deals are honoured only initial few times and then the farmers are taken advantage of their simplicity and dropped like hot bricks in their hour of need. These outsiders cannot be easily tracked down and the misery of the farmers keeps mounting. As flowers are highly perishable, their quality starts deteriorating right after harvest and continues to do so until they are consumed. To tackle this problem, elaborate and extensive marketing channels, facilities and equipments are vital. This behaviour of flowers makes it necessary for them to be not held for long periods and fresh produce from one area be often sent to distant markets without a certain buyer or price. Prices may be negotiated while the commodities are en route, and they are frequently diverted from their original destination if a better price can be found. Sellers might have little market power in determining a price. As a result, a great deal of trust and informal agreements are involved in marketing fresh flowers. Due to the perishability and biological nature of production process, there is a difficulty of scheduling the supply of flowers to market demand. The flowers are subjected to high price and quantity risks with changing consumer demands and production conditions. Unusual production or harvesting weather or a major disease can affect the marketing system detrimentally. While food‐marketing system demands stable price and supply, a number of marketing arrangements like contract farming provide stability.In the absence of control or regulation, prices of floriculture products go haywire. No one gains as on one hand the consumers have to pay very high price while on the other hand, the farmers settle for a minimal bargain. The supply of infrastructure is neither smooth nor fair. Farmers may be further exploited by a number of counterfeit companies operating under the brand‐names of international giants who promise to supply hybrid varieties of seeds, planting materials,
116 plastic sheets for greenhouses etc. They demand high prices for these equipments but fail to deliver the desired quality. Thus the farmers’ hope on seeds of plants guaranteed to produce flowers of a certain size and quality or plastic sheets to last for quite a few years, would be nipped in the bud. Narendra K. Dadlani correctly pointed out that the packaging and transportation of flowers from the production centres to the wholesale markets at present is very unscientific. The flowers, depending on the kind, are packed in old gunny bags, bamboo baskets, simple cartons or just wrapped in old newspapers and transported to markets by road, rail or by air. The mode of transportation depends on the distance to the markets and the volume. Mostly, flowers are harvested in the evening time and transported to nearby cities by overnight trains or buses. In recent years, the government has provided some assistance for buying refrigerated carriage vans. A large number of export oriented units have built up excellent facilities of pre‐cooling chambers, cold stores and reefer vans and their produce coming for domestic market sales are thus of very good quality and have longer vase life and command higher price. The government programmes for floriculture development include creating common facilities of cool chain in large production areas to be shared on cooperative basis. Formation of growers’ cooperatives/associations is being encouraged.6 Perishable cargo complexes have come up in A‐grade cities in India but mostly remain unused due to lack of coordination between the authorities and the growers. In the flower trade, transporters cum commission agents may act as intermediaries to establish the supply linkages. Wholesale traders are directly linked with farmers or intermediaries. Flowers are despatched in cartons, crates or bags by these farmers or intermediaries along with necessary details of the wholesaler like his name, shop number etc. Transportation vans may be used for this purpose. Various channel arrangements may exist for traditional and cut‐flower business. To facilitate interaction with market intermediaries, farmers may merge together either voluntarily or in the form of a cooperative or under an individual aggregator. Thereafter, direct contact is established by them with traders in the big wholesale markets within a distance equal to twenty‐four hours by road/rail. It has been observed that due to the relatively low volume and high value of cut flowers, such aggregation of farmers might fail to work
117 out. So farmers prefer to have direct contact with wholesale traders in prominent centres like Kolkata and Guwahati where flowers can be conveniently transported in simple cartons with minimum hassle. If the farmers can guarantee proper quality and volume, new linkages with greater number of wholesalers can be easily accomplished. No special marketing efforts are employed by florists. The dominant ones are popularly known by virtue of word‐of‐mouth publicity. It is noticeable that internet based orders with web‐advertising are steadily on the rise. Efforts at advertising or other forms of marketing being negligible, florists frequently go in for tie‐ups with marriage halls, hotels and corporate offices to maintain bulk business. Small florists generally keep the flowers in normal room conditions with two days of shelf‐life. During this short span, the flowers do not experience any significant fall in price due to oldness. But when large florists hold the stock for six to seven days at times, the price might depreciate to almost 50%. Focusing on East and North‐east Himalayas, it can be observed that Siliguri, Guwahati, Shillong and Dimapur are emerging as prominent trading centres for flowers of diverse nature. The retail market in such upcoming cities may be divided into two broad classes – Product market and Services market. The Product market can be further subdivided into Retail bouquet based customers and bulk order customers and is primarily catered to by the road–side vendors across the city. Decorations at events and weddings and institution servicing form the Service market is made functional by a select group of florists who operate on a large scale. The youth and the relatively affluent class in the society constitute the individual buyers of cut‐flowers. Such flowers are made more attractive with the help of value addition and sold in the form of beautifully arranged bouquets to be gifted on special occasions. The marriage halls, hotels and corporate offices serve as the institutional client base for cut‐flowers with the marriage halls occupying the lion’s share. A regular level of demand on a daily basis keeps being generated by the hotels and corporate offices. Although the local city markets within West Bengal and Assam are heavily dependent on supply of flowers in volumes from the Mullickghat flower market in Kolkata, it can be concluded that with increasing number of entrepreneurs emerging in selected regions of East and North‐east Himalayas, this dependency is on the decline and these areas are gradually moving
118 towards self‐sufficiency in catering to their local demand for different varieties of ornamental cut‐flowers. The flower markets at Kolkata and Guwahati exhibit strong seasonality in demand. The marriage season acts as the most important deciding factor affecting demand for flowers throughout the year. Even during the months covering the marriage season, demand can be seen to hike steeply around the dates coinciding with the dates for marriages while it slackens on other days. Demand noticeably shoots up during Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Friendship Day and such other special days. Rise in price at consumer levels normally occur from December to March after which it starts declining and reaches the lowest level during the monsoon period from June to August. Therefore, floriculture in the East and North‐east should be planned keeping in mind this seasonality of demand if the local markets are to be utilised for the supply linkages. With the increase in income base and consequently the purchasing power of people, the expenses on flowers for decoration in all functions and occasions have increased overtime. In addition, the choice and specificity of flowers have also experienced a considerable growth. Variety and choice of colours have come to play an important role as per community tastes. In this respect, the new variety of flowers like Carnation, Gerbera and Dendrobium are expected to hold a promising future in floriculture in this region. 4.4: Value Addition vis‐à‐vis Floriculture Value Addition is a means to enhance the economic value and to make a floricultural commodity more appealing in the eyes of the consumer. This can be achieved by changes in genetics, processing or diversification. By devoting more time, labour and skill than is usually required in the farms, a mundane raw commodity can be made unique thereby ensuring higher profits. Although the process not only adds value but also cost to production, proper planning and marketing helps to neutralise the apparent economic burden while significantly raising the net cash return of a small‐scale Floricultural enterprise. It not only promises higher returns to the farmer but also offers more attractive quality products for the domestic and export market.
119
The success of value addition depends to a great extent on careful identification of goods that make use of local resources and that fulfil the gap in the market. Making use of post harvest technology and improved logistics, the idea is to market the floriculture product by luring the customers towards it. Value addition is necessary to keep pace with changing consumer preferences, to rule out the negative influence of middlemen, to adopt a progressive outlook for expanding the market and to boost ones self‐ confidence by being armed with an improved product. Better the marketing strategy, higher are the returns. This augmented return encourages the farmer to produce more, expand exports and also lures new entrepreneurs. Whoever adds to the value of goods, whether the farmer or processor or retailer, usually gets to enjoy the benefits. Even the growth and development of agriculture is dependent on proper value addition. Value addition can be carried out by processing the raw materials, wrapping and packing in a novel manner, labelling the product, imparting a unique appearance to the product, increasing shelf‐life, arranging in baskets and even by building good reputation and relationship. It can be in the form of essential oil extraction from flowers, cut flower production (Fresh/Dried) for occasions, live/potted plants, foliage and other parts of plants in fresh or dried state or as potpourri. Flowers being perishable goods, ways and means of packing it suitably and prolonging the cut flower life, can have far‐ reaching impact on expansion of both domestic as well as foreign markets. Value‐added floral products ensure better commercial response, attract more consumers – both domestic and international, promote exports and enhance the earnings of the farmer along with more foreign exchange for the country. Problems surface in catering to different varieties as per market preference, in implementing the required technology for practising value addition and in coordinating plan and approach of agencies at different levels in separate functional areas like research, extension, finance, quality assurance and certification. Floriculture is emerging as one of the most successful branches of diversified horticultural industry. But just like any other business, the prime motive is profit. So it is necessary to make the right choice on the type of crop and location and also to move suitably with changing times and consumer tastes and preferences making way for value added floral products like essences, perfumes and other by products from
120 flowers. This is an example of how production responds to shifts in consumption pattern. Value addition in floral products through processing, packaging and supply chain management generates higher income and employment. Diversification in farming activities and connecting them to relevant markets together with value addition can only be made effective by directed policy actions. However, it has been observed that in certain areas of the east and north‐east Himalayas, there is huge shortage of power, particularly in the summer months which causes immense hardship to all players in value addition industry in terms of higher input prices. Appropriate and new trends in packaging material for perishable commodities like cut flowers used in value addition are not readily available to sustain transfer of these products to metropolitan cities. There are changes in trends and quality of packing in domestic and international markets. Hence, it is absolutely necessary that these changes/improvements in packaging industry for cut flowers be extended to these areas as well. A widely accepted alternative prevailing here is to firstly, procure packaging materials from larger floriculture hubs from western parts of the country which leads to higher packaging costs. Secondly, some state governments have recently started manufacturing packaging items but unfortunately lack the quality desired. A transport subsidy comes handy to the farmer for importing such materials from abroad in order to balance out the cost. A package programme similar to the Green Revolution in India that became a reality due to the coordinated supply of inputs, technology, seeds and credit, is the need of the hour for successful value addition in floriculture. The domestic and international market demand should pave the way for diversification on high value‐ added floral products. Only with the guarantee of a ready and well‐developed market will the farmers be willing to take the risk in this regard, keeping in mind the perishability of their produce and with the hope of getting remunerative prices and a smooth supply of inputs. Concerted efforts on the part of planners, policy makers as well as producers can bring about the desired innovation in floriculture and groom it for a better tomorrow.
121
REFERENCES :
1. Indian Cold Chain Industry Report, June 2014, by ONICRA Credit Rating Agency. 2. Ibid 3. Das Agnibesh, “Flower Power”, The Sunday Indian, 07th February, 2013. 4. Narendra K. Dadlani, “Cut Flower Production in India”, Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United States, RAP Publication, 1998/14. 5. Export Potential of Horticultural products for North Eastern States‐ Study conducted by CMI Social research centre. 6. Dadlani opcit
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Chapter V : Cost Benefit Analysis The East and North‐East Himalayas is a storehouse of exotic flora of which many are indigenous to this part of the country. The climate in these areas has produced an enormous Wealth of ornamental plants like Carnation, Gerbera, Chrysanthemum and orchids like Dendrobium, Cymbidium, Anthurium etc. Yet the true potential of floriculture in these regions has not been explored adequately. Various farmer‐centric State and Central schemes have been initiated for holistic development of the Floriculture sector to augment the significant progress that certain regions have already witnessed and also to provide the much needed fillip to the nascent commercialization of horticulture. The last decade or so of sustained investments and intensive area expansion has brought Government, Service Providers and farmers together in a new paradigm, which is today driving the development of floriculture in these areas. Even though the farmers are by now well‐acquainted with the concept of commercial floriculture, they are yet to master the intricacies of intensive production, marketing and the allied complexities of commercial production. The degree of progress and achievement in commercial floriculture that has been attained in certain regions of East and North‐East Himalayas has essentially been driven by the Department of Horticulture in these states, with the Government having made and still making substantial investment in the process of development. The success of the Horti‐Hubs and Spokes has been convincingly demonstrated on numerous commercial floriculture units. The time is now ripe to build up on the momentum and successes achieved by the farming community in these crops and move forward to the next stage of participatory, investment driven and market oriented production. There is an immediate and urgent imperative now to motivate, encourage and facilitate the farming community to transform from being beneficiaries of the development process to becoming active participants and partners in the same process. Participation of the private sector is essential for investment‐driven and market oriented sustainable growth of the floriculture sector. The role of the Service Provider also demands redefinition to suit the new paradigm.
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It has been observed in these areas in the recent past that the schemes adopted under various Technology Missions was achieving success on just a yearly basis. Every year funds would come from the Centre to the State to adopt, under certain guidelines, floriculture as an alternative livelihood in the farmers’ field. Service Providers would be chosen randomly (as the choice was very limited in these regions) who would be required to set up the infrastructure for floriculture in the farmers’ field and be paid for a period of one year. It so happened that most of the farmers enjoyed all the inputs provided to them by the Government through the Service Provider, practically free of cost. They tend to lose interest after a period of one year when they are supposed to take over the mantle of existing units and continue. The success rate of such schemes was negligible with the Government pumping in money every year and selecting new set of farmers. It was after such limited success that the Department came to the conclusion that some sort of accountability and economies of such project be put in place to explain this point. Given below are the highlights of the economies of a particular crop as per the area of cultivation, thereby guaranteeing some sort of accountability in terms of expected volumeof flowers, the unit rate, recurring expenditure, gross and net profit to the farmers and so on.
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GERBERA : Table 5.1 : Cost of production of GERBERA cut flowers in 96 M2 Area Polyhouse with 576 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) Land Development & Bed Preparation 13920 1) Cost of Poly house (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 147840 2) Cost of Planting Material 31680 3) Irrigation i) Drip System 37440 DG Set 5000 4) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and pesticides 3456 Total 225416
Table 5.2 Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 96 M2 area GERBERA Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 20 stems @ 4.00 576 46080 221960 3456 225416 -179336 2nd - 30 stems @ 4.50 576 77760 3802 3802 73958 3rd - 25 stems @ 3.50 576 50400 4182 4182 46218 4th - 20 stems @ 4.00 576 46080 50160 4600 54760 -8680 5th - 30 stems @ 4.50 576 77760 5060 5060 72700 6th - 25 stems @ 3.50 576 50400 5566 5566 44834 7th - 20 stems @ 4.00 576 46080 55176 6123 61299 -15219 8th - 30 stems @ 4.50 576 77760 6735 6735 71025 9th - 25 stems @ 3.50 576 50400 7408 7408 42992 10th - 20 stems @ 4.00 576 46080 8149 8149 37931 TOTAL 568800 382376 186424
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.3 : Cost of production of GERBERA cut flowers in 200 M2 Area Polyhouse with 1200 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) Land Development & Bed Preparation 29000 1) Cost of Poly house (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 308000 2) Cost of Planting Material 66000 3) Irrigation i) Drip System 78000 DG Set 5000 4) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 7200 Total 464200
Table 5.4 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 200 M2 area GERBERA Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 20 stems @ 4.00 1200 96000 457000 7200 464200 -368200 2nd - 30 stems @ 4.50 1200 162000 7920 7920 154080 3rd - 25 stems @ 3.50 1200 105000 8712 8712 96288 4th - 20 stems @ 4.00 1200 96000 104500 9583 114083 -18083 5th - 30 stems @ 4.50 1200 162000 10542 10542 151458 6th - 25 stems @ 3.50 1200 105000 11596 11596 93404 7th - 20 stems @ 4.00 1200 96000 114950 12755 127705 -31705 8th - 30 stems @ 4.50 1200 162000 14031 14031 147969 9th - 25 stems @ 3.50 1200 105000 15434 15434 89566 10th - 20 stems @ 4.00 1200 96000 16977 16977 79023 TOTAL 1185000 791199 393801
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.5 : Cost of production of GERBERA cut flowers in 500 M2 Area Polyhouse with 3000 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) Land Development & Bed Preparation 72500 1) Cost of Poly house (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 770000 2) Cost of Planting Material 165000 3) Irrigation i) Drip System 195000 DG Set 10000 4) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer & Pesticides 18000 Total 1158000
Table 5.6 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 500 M2 area GERBERA Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 20 stems @ 4.00 3000 240000 1140000 18000 1158000 -918000 2nd - 30 stems @ 4.50 3000 405000 19800 19800 385200 3rd - 25 stems @ 3.50 3000 262500 21780 21780 240720 4th - 20 stems @ 4.00 3000 240000 261250 23958 285208 -45208 5th - 30 stems @ 4.50 3000 405000 26354 26354 378646 6th - 25 stems @ 3.50 3000 262500 28989 28989 233511 7th - 20 stems @ 4.00 3000 240000 287375 31888 319263 -79263 8th - 30 stems @ 4.50 3000 405000 35077 35077 369923 9th - 25 stems @ 3.50 3000 262500 38585 38585 223915 10th - 20 stems @ 4.00 3000 240000 42443 42443 197557 TOTAL 2962500 1975499 987001
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.7 : Cost of production of GERBERA cut flowers in 1000 M2 Area Polyhouse with 6000 Plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) Land Development & Bed Preparation 146160 1) Cost of Poly house (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 1540000 2) Cost of Planting Materials 330000 3) Irrigation i) Drip System 393120 DG Set 10000 4) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 36000 Total 2309120
Table 5.8 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 1008 M2 area GERBERA Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 20 stems @ 4.00 6000 480000 2273120 18000 2291120 -1811120 2nd - 30 stems @ 4.50 6000 810000 19800 19800 790200 3rd - 25 stems @ 3.50 6000 525000 21780 21780 503220 4th - 20 stems @ 4.00 6000 480000 523776 23958 547734 -67734 5th - 30 stems @ 4.50 6000 810000 26354 26354 783646 6th - 25 stems @ 3.50 6000 525000 28989 28989 496011 7th - 20 stems @ 4.00 6000 480000 576153.6 31888 608042 -128042 8th - 30 stems @ 4.50 6000 810000 35077 35077 774923 9th - 25 stems @ 3.50 6000 525000 38585 38585 486415 10th - 20 stems @ 4.00 6000 480000 42443 42443 437557 TOTAL 5925000 3659923 2265077
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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The cropping pattern in Gerbera cut flowers from various polyhouses in Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya, shows that due to the nature of the crop, the plants have to be changed after a period of three years as they tend to lose their productivity in numbers. After three years, new plants are purchased by farmers. They redo the beds meant for plantation by adding fresh mature cow dung, rice husk and good soil. The beds are then fumigated with fumigation agents such as Formalin or Hydrogen Peroxide with silver. These procedures increases the total expenditure. The working expenditure usually remains the same unless there have been extreme cases of the plants getting affected by diseases. Therefore, the economics of the tables above help us to draw the conclusion that the overall net income that a farmer derives for producing Gerbera cut flowers and selling it, escalates with the higher size of the polyhouse. Exceptions can be cited when the farmers discontinue cultivation when it is time to change the planting material. A vital reason behind this is that such farmers do not use the income earned in a judicious manner and indulge in wasteful expenditure due to which they are unable to make any productive investment in their farms.
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CARNATION : Table 5.9 : Cost of production of CARNATION cut flowers in 96 M2 Area Polyhouse with 1920 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development 13920 2) Cost of Poly House (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 147840 3) Netting cost 0 4) Cost of Planting Material from KF Bio Plts. 48000 5) Irrigation i) Drip System 37440 DG Set 5000 6) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 11520 Total 249800
Table 5.10 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 96 M2 area carnation Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 10 stems @ 4.25 1920 81600 238280 11520 249800 -168200 2nd - 15 stems @ 4.25 1920 122400 12672 12672 109728 3rd - 10 stems @ 4.25 1920 81600 68112 13939 82051 -451 4th - 15 stems @ 4.25 1920 122400 15333 15333 107067 5th - 10stems @ 4.25 1920 81600 74923.2 16866 91790 -10190 6th - 15 stems @ 4.25 1920 122400 18553 18553 103847 7th - 10 stems @ 4.25 1920 81600 82415.52 20408 102824 -21224 8th - 15 stems @ 4.25 1920 122400 22449 22449 99951 9th - 10 stems @ 4.25 1920 81600 90657.072 24694 115351 -33751 10th - 15 stems @ 4.25 1920 122400 27164 27164 95236 TOTAL 1020000 737987 282013
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.11 : Cost of production of CARNATION cut flowers in 200 M2 Area Polyhouse with 4000 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development 29000 2) Cost of Poly House (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 308000 3) Netting cost 0 4) Cost of Planting Material; from KF Bioplants 100000 5) Irrigation i) Drip System 78000 DG Set 5000 6) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Fertilizers 24000 Total 515000
Table 5.12 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 200 M2 area carnation Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 10 stems @ 4.25 4000 170000 491000 24000 515000 -345000 2nd - 15 stems @ 4.25 4000 255000 26400 26400 228600 3rd - 10 stems @ 4.25 4000 170000 141900 29040 170940 -940 4th - 15 stems @ 4.25 4000 255000 31944 31944 223056 5th - 10stems @ 4.25 4000 170000 156090 35138 191228 -21228 6th - 15 stems @ 4.25 4000 255000 38652 38652 216348 7th - 10 stems @ 4.25 4000 170000 171699 42517 214216 -44216 8th - 15 stems @ 4.25 4000 255000 46769 46769 208231 9th - 10 stems @ 4.25 4000 170000 188868.9 51446 240315 -70315 10th - 15 stems @ 4.25 4000 255000 56591 56591 198409 TOTAL 2125000 1532056 592944
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.13 : Cost of production of CARNATION cut flowers in 500 M2 area polyhouse with 10000 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development 72500 2) Cost of Poly House (G.I Structure) Rs.1540/sqm 770000 3) Netting cost 0 4) Cost of Planting Material from KF Bioplants 250000 5) Irrigation i) Drip System 195000 DG Set 10000 6) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 60000 Total 1285000
Table 5.14 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 500 M2 area carnation Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 10 stems @ 4.25 10000 425000 1225000 60000 1285000 -860000 2nd - 15 stems @ 4.25 10000 637500 66000 66000 571500 3rd - 10 stems @ 4.25 10000 425000 354750 72600 427350 -2350 4th - 15 stems @ 4.25 10000 637500 79860 79860 557640 5th - 10stems @ 4.25 10000 425000 390225 87846 478071 -53071 6th - 15 stems @ 4.25 10000 637500 96631 96631 540869 7th - 10 stems @ 4.25 10000 425000 429247.5 106294 535541 -110541 8th - 15 stems @ 4.25 10000 637500 116923 116923 520577 9th - 10 stems @ 4.25 10000 425000 472172.25 128615 600788 -175788 10th - 15 stems @ 4.25 10000 637500 141477 141477 496023 TOTAL 5312500 3827640 1484860
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.15 : Cost of production of CARNATION cut flowers in 1000 M2 Area Polyhouse with 20160 plants Proposed Cost (Amt. in Rs.)
Component/Item 1) Land Development 146160 2) Cost of Poly House (G.I Structure)Rs.1540/sqm 1540000 3) Netting cost 0 4) Cost of Planting Material from KF Bioplants 504000 5) Irrigation i) Drip System 393120 DG Set 10000 6) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 120960 Total 2568080
Table 5.16 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 1000 M2 area carnation Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 10 stems @ 4.25 20160 856800 2447120 120960 2568080 -1711280 2nd - 15 stems @ 4.25 20160 1285200 133056 133056 1152144 3rd - 10 stems @ 4.25 20160 856800 554400 146362 700762 156038 4th - 15 stems @ 4.25 20160 1285200 160998 160998 1124202 5th - 10stems @ 4.25 20160 856800 609840 177098 786938 69862 6th - 15 stems @ 4.25 20160 1285200 194807 194807 1090393 7th - 10 stems @ 4.25 20160 856800 670824 214288 885112 -28312 8th - 15 stems @ 4.25 20160 1285200 235717 235717 1049483 9th - 10 stems @ 4.25 20160 856800 737906.4 259289 997195 -140395 10th - 15 stems @ 4.25 20160 1285200 285217 285217 999983 TOTAL 10710000 6947881 3762119
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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In case of Carnation, the plants in the polyhouse need to be changed every alternate year to maintain its productivity and quality of flowers. The beds also need to be redone in the usual manner. That amounts not only to an added burden on the farmer but the flowers from the new plants are also sold at a lower rate because of its reduced size. Even then, as is evident from the above tables, the farmer manages to draw a healthy net income that keeps rising with the size of the polyhouse.
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ANTHURIUM : Table 5.17 : Cost of production of ANTHURIUM cut flowers in 96 M2 Area Polyhouse with 1152 plants
Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Terrace Development 0 ii) Cocopeat 0 iii) Bed Making 24480 2) Poly‐Shade House @ 1540/SqMtr 147840 3) Cost of Planting Material 178560 4) Irrigation i) Drip & Misting System 38400 DG Set 5000 1) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 6912 Total 401192
Table 5.18 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 96 M2 area Anthurium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 2 Stem@ 7.0 1152 16128 394280 6912 401192 -385064 2nd - 5 [email protected] 1152 57600 7603 7603 49997 3rd - 8 [email protected] 1152 110592 8364 8364 102228 4th - 10 [email protected] 1152 149760 9200 9200 140560 5th - 11 [email protected] 1152 177408 10120 10120 167288 6th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 1152 207360 11132 11132 196228 7th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 1152 207360 12245 12245 195115 8th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 1152 276480 13470 13470 263010 9th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 1152 276480 14816 14816 261664 10th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 1152 276480 16298 16298 260182 TOTAL 1755648 504439 1251209 Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.19 : Cost of production of ANTHURIUM cut flowers in 200 M2 Area Polyhouse with 2400 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Terrace Development 0 ii) Cocopith 0 iii) Bed Making 51000 2) Poly‐Shade House @ 1540/SqMtr 308000 3) Cost of Planting Material 372000 4) Irrigation i) Drip & Misting System 80000 DG Set 5000 1) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 14400 Total 830400
Table 5.20 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 200 M2 area Anthurium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 2 Stem@ 7.0 2400 33600 816000 14400 830400 -796800 2nd - 5 [email protected] 2400 120000 15840 15840 104160 3rd - 8 [email protected] 2400 230400 17424 17424 212976 4th - 10 [email protected] 2400 312000 19166 19166 292834 5th - 11 [email protected] 2400 369600 21083 21083 348517 6th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 2400 432000 23191 23191 408809 7th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 2400 432000 25510 25510 406490 8th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 2400 576000 28062 28062 547938 9th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 2400 576000 30868 30868 545132 10th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 2400 576000 33954 33954 542046 TOTAL 3657600 1045499 2612101
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.21 : Cost of production of ANTHURIUM cut flowers in 500 M2 Area Polyhouse with 6000 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Terrace Development 0 ii) Cocopith 0 iii) Bed Making 127500 2) Shade House @ 1540/SqMtr i) Cost of GI Structure, GI wires etc. 770000 3) Cost of Planting Material 930000 4) Irrigation i) Misting System 200000 DG Set 10000 5) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 36000 Total 2073500
Table 5.22 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 500 M2 area Anthurium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 2 Stem@ 7.0 6000 84000 2037500 36000 2073500 -1989500 2nd - 5 [email protected] 6000 300000 39600 39600 260400 3rd - 8 [email protected] 6000 576000 43560 43560 532440 4th - 10 [email protected] 6000 780000 47916 47916 732084 5th - 11 [email protected] 6000 924000 52708 52708 871292 6th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 6000 1080000 57978 57978 1022022 7th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 6000 1080000 63776 63776 1016224 8th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 6000 1440000 70154 70154 1369846 9th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 6000 1440000 77169 77169 1362831 10th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 6000 1440000 84886 84886 1355114 TOTAL 9144000 2611247 6532753
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.23 : Cost of production of ANTHURIUM cut flowers in 1000 M2 Area Polyhouse with 12096 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Terrace Development 0 ii) Cocopith 0 iii) Bed Making 257040 2) Shade House @ 1540/SqMtr i) Cost of GI Structure, GI wires etc. 1400000 3) Cost of Planting Material 1874880 4) Irrigation i) Misting System 403200 DG Set 10000 1) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer and Pesticides 72578 Total 4017698
Table 5.24 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 1000 M2 area Anthurium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 2 Stem@ 7.0 12096 169344 3945120 72578 4017698 -3848354 2nd - 5 [email protected] 12096 604800 79836 79836 524964 3rd - 8 [email protected] 12096 1161216 87819 87819 1073397 4th - 10 [email protected] 12096 1572480 96601 96601 1475879 5th - 11 [email protected] 12096 1862784 106261 106261 1756523 6th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 12096 2177280 116888 116888 2060392 7th - 12 Stems @ 15.0 12096 2177280 128576 128576 2048704 8th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 12096 2903040 141434 141434 2761606 9th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 12096 2903040 155577 155577 2747463 10th - 12 Stems @ 20.00 12096 2903040 171135 171135 2731905 TOTAL 18434304 5101826 13332478
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Anthurium crop is usually grown in sub‐tropical climate where temperature and humidity play a very important role in cultivation of flowers. The very nature of the plant is such that it keeps growing till the tenth year and does not require any replacement. It is grown on soil‐less medium consisting of coconut husk chips, coco peat, pieces of charcoal and bricks – all mixed together and placed into beds which have free flow of air. In Dimapur, the productivity of Anthurium is far less when compared to Gerbera and Carnation but returns are much higher. Net income earned by farmers growing Anthurium is much more rewarding than any other flower. However, the farmers need to be patient and committed in their efforts. In Dimapur, it is observed that most farmers operating in small polyhouses have earned enough to maintain their families. But it is the farmers with large poyhouses who are doing really well. A trend that was noticed here was that the Department of Horticulture allotted large polyhouses to affluent farmers who could sustain the recurring expenditure in this long period of ten years that have been considered for estimation.
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DENDROBIUM : Table 5.25 : Cost of production of DENDROBIUM cut flowers in 96 M2 Area Polyhouse with 1536 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Site Clearing/Development 0 ii) Bench making 64992 2) Green House Cost @ 1540/SqMtr 147840 3) Cost of Planting Material imported varieties 176640 4) Irrigation 38400 DG Set 5000 5) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer & Pesticides 9216 Total 442088
Table 5.26 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 96 M2 area Dendrobium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 4 stems @ 6.0 1536 36864 432872 9216 442088 -405224 2nd - 8 stems @ 8.0 1536 98304 10138 10138 88166 3rd - 10 stems @ 10.0 1536 153600 11151 11151 142449 4th - 12 stems @ 10.0 1536 184320 12266 12266 172054 5th - 14 stems @ 12.0 1536 258048 13493 13493 244555 6th - 14 stems @ 15.0 1536 322560 14842 14842 307718 7th - 16 stems @ 15.0 1536 368640 16327 16327 352313 8th - 16 stems @ 15.0 1536 368640 17959 17959 350681 9th - 14 stems @ 15.0 1536 322560 19755 19755 302805 10th - 10 stems @ 12.0 1536 184320 21731 21731 162589 TOTAL 2297856 579751 1718105
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.27 : Cost of production of DENDROBIUM cut flowers in 200M2 Area Polyhouse with 3200 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Site Clearing/Development 0 ii) Bench making 135400 2) Green House Cost @ 1540/SqMtr 308000 3) Cost of Planting Material imported varieties 368000 4) Irrigation 80000 DG Set 5000 5) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer & Pesticides 19200 Total 915600
Table 5.28 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 200 M2 area Dendrobium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 4 stems @ 6.0 3200 76800 896400 19200 915600 -838800 2nd - 8 stems @ 8.0 3200 204800 21120 21120 183680 3rd - 10 stems @ 10.0 3200 320000 23232 23232 296768 4th - 12 stems @ 10.0 3200 384000 25555 25555 358445 5th - 14 stems @ 12.0 3200 537600 28111 28111 509489 6th - 14 stems @ 15.0 3200 672000 30922 30922 641078 7th - 16 stems @ 15.0 3200 768000 34014 34014 733986 8th - 16 stems @ 15.0 3200 768000 37415 37415 730585 9th - 14 stems @ 15.0 3200 672000 41157 41157 630843 10th - 10 stems @ 12.0 3200 384000 45273 45273 338727 TOTAL 4787200 1202399 3584801
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.29 : Cost of production of DENDROBIUM cut flowers in 500M2 Area Polyhouse with 8000 plants: Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Site Clearing/Development ii) Bench making 338500 2) Green House Cost @ 1540/SqMtr. 770000 3) Cost of Planting Material imported varieties 920000 4) Irrigation 200000 DG Set 10000 5) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer & Pesticides 48000 Total 2286500
Table 5.30 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 500 M2 area Dendrobium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st - 4 stems @ 6.0 8000 192000 2238500 48000 2286500 -2094500 2nd - 8 stems @ 8.0 8000 512000 52800 52800 459200 3rd - 10 stems @ 10.0 8000 800000 58080 58080 741920 4th - 12 stems @ 10.0 8000 960000 63888 63888 896112 5th - 14 stems @ 12.0 8000 1344000 70277 70277 1273723 6th - 14 stems @ 15.0 8000 1680000 77304 77304 1602696 7th - 16 stems @ 15.0 8000 1920000 85035 85035 1834965 8th - 16 stems @ 15.0 8000 1920000 93538 93538 1826462 9th - 14 stems @ 15.0 8000 1680000 102892 102892 1577108 10th - 10 stems @ 12.0 8000 960000 113181 113181 846819 TOTAL 11968000 3003496 8964504
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centres.
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Table 5.31 : Cost of production of DENDROBIUM cut flowers in 1000M2 Area Polyhouse with 16128 plants Proposed Cost Component/Item (Amt. in Rs.) 1) Land Development i) Site Clearing/Development 0 ii) Bench making 682416 2) Green House Cost @1540/SqMtr 1540000 3) Cost of Planting Material imported varieties 1854720 4) Irrigation 403200 DG Set 10000 5) Cost of Cultivation i) Cost of fertilizer & Pesticides 96768 Total 4587104
Table 5.32 : Estimate of Net Income(INR) of a farmer from 1000 M2 area Dendrobium Polyhouse
Expected expenditure on fixed Estimated assets excl. Expected Estimated No. of Gross loan & working Total Net Year Plants Income interest expenditure Expenditure Income 1st ‐ 4 stems @ 6.0 16128 387072 4490336 96768 4587104 ‐4200032 2nd ‐ 8 stems @ 8.0 16128 1032192 106445 106445 925747 3rd ‐ 10 stems @ 10.0 16128 1612800 117089 117089 1495711 4th ‐ 12 stems @ 10.0 16128 1935360 128798 128798 1806562 5th ‐ 14 stems @ 12.0 16128 2709504 141678 141678 2567826 6th ‐ 14 stems @ 15.0 16128 3386880 155846 155846 3231034 7th ‐ 16 stems @ 15.0 16128 3870720 171430 171430 3699290 8th ‐ 16 stems @ 15.0 16128 3870720 188573 188573 3682147 9th ‐ 14 stems @ 15.0 16128 3386880 207431 207431 3179449 10th ‐ 10 stems @ 12.0 16128 1935360 228174 228174 1707186 TOTAL 24127488 6032569 18094919
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centers.
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Similar to Anthurium, Dendrobium is grown on coco block and on elevated platform from the soil. Once again, it is a very slow‐growing plant and practically disease‐free. It requires a lot of moisture for healthy production. Plants do not need any replacement in the first ten years and with age produces better quality flowers. Farmers in Dimapur, Nagaland have turned out to be champions in cultivating this crop from zero experience and an interaction with them has brought to light the well‐known fact that the net return from growing this crop in larger greenhouses is more in volumes as the number of plants are much more compared to smaller ones. Certain factors like availability of land of the farmer, his economic background and the agriclimatic zone of cultivation also have a dominant role to play. The price of each stem of Dendrobium is less compared to Anthurium. This is due to the fact that it is a very common flower and readily imported by wholesalers from Thailand in the nearby markets of Kolkata and Guwahati. To compete with the prices of imported flowers, the farmers have adopted low prices of their own flowers but still manage to reap in sufficient returns. It is difficult to collect data of ten long years from the farmers who usually keep their sale figures for the previous year only. But a systematic database from the local Service Provider has helped to highlight a healthy net income of a farmer growing Dendrobium in large polyhouses.
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Fig 5.a : Comparison of Net Income of farmers in different sizes of Polyhouse in 10 years over four different crops
20000000
15000000 GERBERA 10000000 CARNATION ANTHURIUM 5000000 DENDROBIUM 0 96 M² 200 M² 500 M² 1000 ‐5000000 M²
Source : Primary data collected from The Office of District Horticulture Officer and Collection centers. After observing the above returns from various sizes of greenhouse of crops like Gerbera, Carnation, Anthurium and Dendrobium, we can draw the conclusion that the larger the area of cultivation the more viable is the project and that the net returns keep increasing as the size of the polyhouse increases. This holds true due to a number of facts: a. Labour cost for larger greenhouses is less compared to smaller ones. b. Larger the volume of crops quantitatively, more is the net income. c. Crop management can be assessed at a macro level rather than at a micro level in larger greenhouses, though the effort is the same regardless the size of the polyhouse, thereby incurring less fixed cost for larger ones. d. Chances of unsellable flowers are lower in larger greenhouses as compared to smaller ones. It has been observed that in case of pest attack in smaller greenhouses, the effects are disastrous as it spreads quickly all over a limited space thus damaging the entire crop. On the contrary, in larger polyhouses, even if a small area gets affected, majority of the rest of the flowers can still be
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sold. Thus it may be concluded that economies of scale are clearly and prominently demonstrated in larger polyhouses, as against the smaller ones. We might wonder as to why then small units are being allocated to farmers by the Government. Interaction with the farmers revealed the fact that availability of land was the biggest constraint for large cultivations. Nevertheless, it was also observed that after achieving success in their first unit, motivated farmers procured land from their nearby relatives to extend and expand. While allocating larger units, certain factors need to be taken into consideration that cannot be controlled or regulated by man, namely, extreme weather conditions during rainy/windy season during the months of March, April and May. Larger polyhouses tend to be 6‐6.5 m in height. It is this height of the polyhouse that acts as a hindrance during high wind and often damages the polyhouse that directly pinches the farmer’s pocket. The impact of the agriclimatic zone on the productivity of crops and the net returns of the farmers is intense. Selection of the correct variety of crop that favourably suits the particular agriclimatic conditions, brings out the best in them. For example, an area suitable for growing Anthurium will never give good results for Gerbera and Carnation and viceversa. In Gerbera and Carnation, returns to farmers are very quick as flowers tend to appear within four months of plantation whereas in Anthurium it takes as long as nine to ten months. So the right choice of crop at the right place assures handsome retuns to farmers overtime. Floriculture, popularly, stands out as a more attractive alternative to traditional farming. But a field study in areas of Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur in Nagaland has revealed how difficult it is to draw a comparative study between traditional agriculture and commercial floriculture. The fundamental drawback is that, in these regions, traditional agriculture in the form of say cultivation of paddy, potato and maize is mainly for self‐consumption where the seeds are provided to the farmers by the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments. Data regarding quantity of produce or monetary returns of production is very patchy and difficult to collect as it hardly ever used to be marketed or sold. Although a comparison regarding commercial viability is a tough task, the advantages of floriculture in these regions as against traditional agriculture is easy to point out. Crops
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like paddy, potato and maize are season‐oriented and totally dependent on Mother Nature. Failure or delay in monsoons directly lead to fluctuations or late harvest whereas in case of protected cultivation, the farmer as a whole is safeguarded against vagaries of nature with very limited use of water and fertilizers. For example, in winter, open field cultivation is hampered by frost, high wind and shortage of water and farming literally comes to a standstill but under protected farming, crops may be grown in all seasons of the year with protection against climate and very limited use of water through drip irrigation. Farmers growing traditional crops exhaust all their produce to cater to the demands of family and home but modern farming allows them to reap the benefits and returns of a marketable surplus. During the lean agricultural season, when they used to formerly remain idle and unoccupied, a welcome change has surfaced now in the fact that not only the farmers but almost their entire family is gainfully employed the whole year. Hence, in making a decision regarding shifting to a more modern form of commercial cultivation, the farmers need to consider whether income generated by the new farming practice will be greater than the existing activity, with similar or less risk and opt for those variety of crops that suit the farmers in terms of their climate, land, labour and other resources. It must be noted that setting up this protected cultivation involves a very high cost as the technology is rather expensive. The Government in these states is very proactive in providing the farmers such expensive infrastructure on a one‐time basis at a subsidized rate. These farmers are also made to understand that the returns from the projects are to be judiciously used and a portion saved in the Banks for future maintenance and duplication. Farmers who are sincere and dedicated in the states of Meghalaya and Nagaland, to name a few, have been exemplary to encourage others to follow their path. In keeping with the truth of the proverb ‘Seeing is Believing’, proven success stories have worked well for those unaware of the boons of floriculture in this part of the country. It is a mutual understanding in the family that generally the women take care of plant management, harvest, grading and packing whereas the menfolk do their bit by taking the packed produce to the Service Provider, the Hub or the market for sale of the produce. Thus, there is gainful involvement of family members that improves not only their quality of life but also results in a direct socio‐economic betterment.
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Chapter VI: Role of Government in developing Floriculture
Government of India acknowledges the potential of Floriculture industry and has conferred it 100% export oriented status. Various incentives offered by Government of India have enabled the setting up of a number of floriculture units for producing and exporting flowers which have obtained technical know‐how from Dutch and Israeli consultants. Tax benefits are offered to new export oriented floriculture companies in the form of income‐tax holidays and exemption from certain import duties like reduction of duties for import of flower seeds and tissue‐cultured plants. Financial support is provided for setting up of pre‐cooling and cold storage units, as well as for using improved packaging material.1 Government of India promotes assists and facilitates the setting up of Agri Export Zones (AEZ) in association with the State Government with the objective of providing remunerative returns to farming community in a sustained manner and to increase their competitiveness. There are at present six operational AEZs for floricultural development in India. 2 Table 6.1 : List of Agri Export zones for Floriculture Development SL STATE DISTRICT/AREA
1 Tamil Nadu Dharmapuri.
2 Uttaranchal Districts of Dehradun, Pantnagar.
3 Maharashtra Pune, Nasik, Kolhapur and Sangli.
4 Karnataka Banglore(Urban), Banglore (Rural), Kolar, Tumkur, Kodagu and Belgaum.
5 Sikkim East Sikkim.
6 Tamil Nadu Nilgiri District.
Source : APEDA
Indian floriculture industry is also affected by the global economic slowdown. Further the competition in the international arena has been increasing with the entry of new African countries in global floriculture trade. Besides, a number of Asian neighbours are emerging as competitors in the export market such as China, Nepal, Sri Lanka and
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Pakistan. With international trade in the sector showing not‐so‐favourable scenario, the domestic market for flowers is on the rise with flower consumption in cities and towns reportedly growing at 40% per annum.3
6.1: Schemes available at present In order to improve livelihood opportunities and to bring prosperity to NER (North Eastern Region) including Sikkim and Himalayan states, Government of India has launched a Horticulture Mission For North East And Himalayan States (HMNEHS) for Integrated Development of Horticulture. The mission is based on the ‘end‐to‐end approach’ taking into account the entire gamut of horticulture development with all backward and forward linkages in a holistic manner. As per the Operational Guidelines 2010 of HMNEH, the Mission will operate in North Eastern States (Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura) and Himalayan States (Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand) to promote holistic growth of horticulture sector covering fruits, vegetables, flowers etc. HMNEH is a centrally sponsored scheme for which 100% assistance is provided by Government of India. The Objectives of the Mission are: 1. Harness potential of Horticulture in the region by increasing production and productivity of Horticultural crops 2. Maximize; economic, ecological and social benefits; through desirable diversification 3. Develop additional infrastructure for production of planting material, storage and marketing of horticultural produce 4. Provide skilful employment in the region
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To achieve the above objectives, the Mission strategy includes:
1. Adoption of end‐to‐end holistic approach covering production, protection, post‐ harvest management and marketing to ensure appropriate returns to growers/producers.
2. Enhance acreage, coverage and productivity.
3. Improvement of post‐harvest management and marketing infrastructure.
4. Promotion of technologies developed through R&D for improving quality of horticulture produce.
5. Adopt a coordinated approach and promote partnership, convergence and synergy among R&D and marketing agencies in public as well as private sectors, at national, regional, state and district level. The Mission Structure comprises of: 1. Mini Mission I (Research) which concentrates on technology generation as appropriate to each region/state keeping in view their specific agro‐climatic and socio‐economic conditions. 2. Mini Mission II (Production & Productivity Improvement) which focuses on increasing quantum and quality of horticulture produce through adoption of improved technologies including genetic upgradation of all horticulture crops. 3. Mini Mission III (Post Harvest Management & Marketing) which aims to create suitable infrastructure facilities for efficient post‐ harvest management, integrated cool chain system, primary processing/value addition and marketing of horticulture produce. 4. Mini Mission IV (Processing & Value addition) which was implemented by Ministry of Food Processing Industries and includes promotion and establishment of new processing units, modernization and up gradation of existing units, market promotion of processed horticulture products by brand building, quality assurance, entrepreneurial development etc. The Institutional Structure of the Mission at the National Level comprises of the Central Steering Committee (CSC) that under chairmanship of Secretary (A&C) oversees all
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activities and approves Action Plan of various states under Mini Mission II. CSC has discretion and authority to reallocate funds earmarked for various components within Mission outlay as per needs and requirements based on feed‐back or evaluation. CSC is also empowered to approve special interventions for tackling emergent/unforeseen requirements but subsidy for such interventions will not be more than 50% of approved costs. At the State Level, the State Level Steering Committee (SLSC) is responsible for approving the State Annual Action Plan (AAP) and ensures effective implementation and monitoring of Mission in the states. At the District Level, the State Level Committee of implementing states will constitute District Level Committee (DLC) that will comprise of officials from Horticulture, Agriculture, Panchayati raj institution and other line departments. Coordination will be ensured by the committee at district level. Technical Support Group (TSG) – The Mission has strong technical component and domain experts are central to management of the Mission. Technical support to the Mission at National and State levels are provided by SFAC which are suitably strengthened by experts and technical personnel to advise, formulate, appraise and monitor the implementation of the Mission’s programmes. Small Farmer’s Agri‐Business Consortium (SFAC), New Delhi has an important role to play. It interacts with State Governments/State agencies to obtain their views on the programmes of the Mission and may suggest modifications in policies or scheme parameters for considerations of DAC. In addition to its role of monitoring and sending quarterly report to Horticulture Mission Cell, DAC, SFAC also acts directly as an implementing agency for any component of the Mission programme on request of DAC. The funds for Mini Missions II, III and IV (except to designated agencies like NHB, NBB for capacity building in Agriculture/ Horticulture etc.) is to be routed through SFAC for further release to respective State Level SFAC of the States concerned. Funds of Mini Mission I is to be directly released to Nodal Officers of ICAR institutes. National Committee on Plasticulture Applications in Horticulture (NCPAH) is one among a number of various national level agencies through which certain components of the
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Mission are being implemented. It coordinates and monitors activities relating to precision farming and hi‐tech floriculture. Supporting Agencies: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is an apex bank of the country for supporting and promoting agriculture and rural development. The Government of India and Reserve Bank of India contribute to the share capital of NABARD. As a refinance institution, NABARD has been playing an important role to develop floriculture in India. The Credit Functions of NABARD are: 1. Preparation of potential linked credit plan annually for all districts for identification of potential for exploitation through bank credit 2. Monitoring the flow of ground level rural credit 3. Issuing policy and operational guidelines to rural financing institution 4. Providing credit facilities to institution Floriculture being a capital‐intensive activity, finance poses as one of the most significant inputs in its development. Finance is essential for development of land, drip irrigation, machinery and equipment, green house, cold storage, planting material, post‐ harvest management and other activities. NABARD has played a very helpful role in this aspect. It provides facilities of refinancing in floriculture in different areas of the country. It has contributed immensely in promoting and supporting hi‐tech floriculture projects by way of providing huge finance. National Horticulture Board (NHB) has taken up two strategies – 1. Promotional activities to boost the process of employment generation, increase in income of small and marginal farmers and backward communities in the process of horticulture development. 2. Catalytic activities for commercialization of horticulture through production, post ‐harvest management and processing with enhanced productivity, processing and marketing related programmes. NHB received a major thrust from the Government in the Eighth Plan with the following schemes:
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Soft loan schemes for exploring commercial horticulture, post‐ harvest management and marketing. Schemes to provide support services like market information and transfer of technology. Schemes to create awareness and updating the state of horticulture through innovative ideas and professional concepts. The Ninth Plan expanded the schemes to cover every aspect of horticulture promotion in India. Henceforth, significance of the scheme would be result oriented and substituted with back ended capital intensive subsidy. The NHB has decentralised and simplified the procedures and linked subsidy with performance. Components of the schemes are of two types: A) Production Related Components High quality commercial horticulture crops Indigenous crops, herbs, aromatic plants, seed and nursery Biotechnology, tissue culture, bio‐ pesticides, organic foods Establishment of horticulture Health Clinic/ laboratory (for agri/horti unemployed graduates) Consultancy services, bee keeping B) Post Harvest Management / Primary Processing Related components: Grading/ washing/ sorting/ drying/ packing centres. Pre cooling unit/ cool stores Refer van/ containers Special transport vehicle Retail outlets, auction platforms, market yard, rope ways Ripening/ curing chamber Radiation unit/ dehydration unit/ vapour heat treatment unit Primary processing of products fermentalisation, extraction, distillation, juice vending pulping, dressing, cutting, chopping, etc Hort. Ancillary Industry e.g. tools, equipment, plastics, packaging, etc.
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Crates, cartons, aseptic packaging and nets where 50%subsidy as assistance is available N.H.B has provided Back ended capital investment subsidy not exceeding 20 per cent of the project cost with a maximum limit of Rs. 29 lakh per project (Rs, 30 lakh for North East tribal area).Eligible organizations to benefit from the above scheme include NGO‟s, Association of Growers, Individuals, Partnerships/Proprietary Firm, Companies, Corporations, Cooperatives, Agricultural Marketing Committees, Marketing Boards/Committees, Municipal Corporations, Agro Industries Corporation and other concerned Research and Development Organizations. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Commerce with the prime responsibility to promote export of processed horticultural products. The main objectives of APEDA are: To maximize foreign exchange earnings through increased agro‐export for providing higher incomes to the farmers through higher unit value realization. To create employment opportunities in rural areas by encouraging value added exports of farm products, and To implement schemes for providing financial assistance to improve post‐ harvest facilities to boost their export. APEDA has played a significant role in the development of floriculture in India. Its initiation of certain strategic measures has highly enhanced the export performance of the floriculture industry. There are set cold storage and cargo handling centre for perishable cargo at Chhatrapati Shivaji International (C.S.I.) airport Mumbai that APEDA has contributed by way grant‐in‐aid. This facilitates growers to enjoy better prices due to the large potential and growing domestic market during the season when exports are not made.
APEDA has set‐up a marketing centre at Alasmeer in Netherland to promote Indian produce. APEDA plans to provide assistance for the infrastructure while day‐to‐day management is to be looked after by the growers so that the centre is self‐sufficient in meeting all operational costs.
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APEDA had conducted the study on viability of floriculture industry and identified several constraints i.e. high marketing cost, absence of critical infrastructure for export facilitation, high cost of finance etc., Suggestion are being taken into consideration by the Government with several measures to tackle these constraints4. 6.2: Promotion of Joint Venture The idea of exploring technical tie‐ups and joint ventures is necessitated out of the Indian Government’s need for investment and technology infusion. Attracted by the huge growth potential of Floriculture, the private sector developed a growing interest in this field, resulting in joint ventures. Initially such ventures were mainly with Europe based companies whereby European firms enjoyed the benefit of transferring their production from Europe to India while local partners could avail themselves of technical assistance to standardize their production technology. In certain cases, Indian companies simply worked as production units with complete technical assistance from their foreign partner along with a100% buy‐back arrangement. India mainly depends on foreign technology for cultivation of flowers in greenhouses as she herself lacks an appropriate indigenous technology to make use of. Since initial investment is very high, many growers opt for joint ventures with international partners. Presently, most of the Export Oriented Units in the country largely depend on foreign collaboration for technological assistance as cultivation of cut flowers under protected conditions is a relatively recent development with which locals are not very well‐versed. Thus foreign collaborations have surfaced with companies from Netherlands, Israel, and France to name a few, with many of them having their offices in India.5 In most cases, the foreign collaborators supply one of the inputs of the floriculture industry like planting material, greenhouse or they are experts in marketing. Some, like the Dutch floriculture companies, also have their production bases in India, particularly growing summer and tropical flowers.6 Indian entrepreneurs in the Floriculture sector usually run medium sized businesses. They look up to joint ventures as a turn‐key collaboration where they depend on the foreign companies to set up the projects and supply the inputs with buy‐back
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arrangements. However, in recent years, top Indian Corporate namely Reliance, ITC, Tata Tea, Essar Group, Bharti Group, Thapar Group etc. have ventured in to the Floriculture industry. Their plans are driven by demand from overseas retailers like TESCO, Sainsbury, Wal‐Mart, Asda, Sears, Carrefour, Metro and K‐Mart.7 In certain areas of East and North‐east Himalayas like Nagaland and Meghalaya, the concept of Joint Venture is a non‐starter as per their social, economic and tribal status. As most of the land is of tribal ownership, it is not feasible to own or purchase land from the tribals to go for such Joint Ventures. So when the land is owned by the local people, it has proved to be a risky endeavour for outsiders to come and invest in floriculture projects when there is a chance that the owner of the land may disagree on the returns of the project once the project is set up. In such a situation, the investor, who is a non‐tribal, is always in the losing side. External factors such as political unrest/militancy have a further negative impact to attract investment in this sector. The only scenario when a Joint Venture could be a success has been when the Service Provider ties up with the Department of Horticulture on a PPP (Public Private Partnership) model on government‐land. Over here, an MOU is signed between the two parties, keeping in mind all issues of such a project. To highlight such a scenario, a good example would be the MOU signed between DHO, Jaintia Hills and North Bengal Floritech, Meghalaya on the Thadlaskein Horti Hub. In this Hub, which is on government‐land, under the DHO, the Service Provider has set up a centre of excellence for cut flowers which are suitable to be grown in that region. Cut flowers such as Gerbera, Dutch Rose, Lilium, Chrysanthemum, Carnation, Cymbidium, Catalleya orchids and filler crops such as Leather leaf and Ruscus are grown under hi‐tech polyhouses with drip irrigation systems. Besides such infrastructure, cold room and precooling chambers have also been set up by the Service Provider. Other facilities such as farmers’ training centre, farmers’ hostel, flower collection centre and grading and sorting rooms have been set up by the DHO, who made a onetime payment to the Service Provider for setting up the infrastructure for cultivation of cut flowers mentioned above. The Service Provider, on its part, invests in transfer of technology for the cultivation of these flowers, as well as, in the farmers’ field when smaller units are given to the farmers by the DHO. This ‘Hub and Spoke’ model for Gerbera in particular
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at Jaintia Hills, where a Joint Venture has been established between the Service Provider and the DHO under the Department of Horticulture, has proved to be a grand success so much so that this district has been declared as the Gerbera district of Meghalaya. Every year at least twenty farmers are added to the long list of spokes which fall under this Joint Venture. The Service Provider has a MOU for the transfer of technology, setting up of infrastructure and most importantly, purchase of flowers from the farmers. The DHO is the monitoring agency. Hence, it can be observed here that a Joint Venture has been successfully established between a Service provider and the Department of Horticulture on government‐land whereas the farmers/tribals are indirectly under the umbrella of this MOU between the Service Provider and DHO. So it is a win‐win situation for both the Service Provider and the farmers and their success has led to the farmers finding an attractive alternative source of income which was absent with the traditional way of living. Success of such a venture lies in the fact that progressive farmers have been encouraged to start investing their own money rather than wait for government subsidies. This is beneficial for the Service Providers as well since they do not suffer from the insecurity of losing out on the investment they make on such projects as the Government is a partner to such a Joint Venture. 6.3: Lacuna in implementation of Government Schemes Department of Agriculture and Cooperation under the Ministry of Agriculture is the nodal organisation for development of floriculture. It is responsible for formulation and implementation of national policies and programmes aimed at achieving rapid agricultural growth through optimum utilization of land, water, soil and plant resources of the country. The Horticulture Division in the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation is vested with the responsibility of overseeing the overall accelerated development of the sector. It has been set up with a mandate to implement the programmes for improving the production, productivity and utilization of horticultural crops, support and formulate policies aimed for accelerated growth of horticulture, facilitate the availability of disease‐free planting material and seeds of horticulture crops, provide the leadership and coordinate activities for the promotion of horticulture etc.
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Several schemes have been initiated by the Government for promotion and development of floriculture. Integrated Development of Commercial Floriculture is one such scheme with the objective to improve production and productivity of traditional as well as cut flowers through availability of quality planting material and transfer technology, improve human resource capabilities for growing flowers scientifically, promote production of off‐season and quality flowers through protected cultivation as well as improve farm post‐ harvest handling of flowers. State Governments have set up separate departments for promotion and development of the sector in their respective States. However, there are some teething problems in such schemes and the most glaring of them all is the fact that the schemes often adopted by some States are centralised and operation and execution of schemes becomes a nightmare in the district level. But, it is to be noted here that those States which have decentralized the operation of the schemes as per the guidelines have met with success. Another important factor that is often becoming a hindrance in implementing these schemes is that the State’s contribution in terms of money has been nil or negligible as for example the micro‐irrigation schemes adopted under the NCPAH guidelines. Many a times, experiments and research conducted in the laboratories of Agricultural Universities and Research Institutes fail to reach the growers. Also, government planning lacks testing the selected crop in the conditions chosen before cultivation e.g. cultivation of Lisianthus in Mynkre, Meghalaya and Anthurium in Dimapur, Nagaland where crop quality and volume has not been achieved by the farmers. This is a classic example of failure of decision‐making mechanism of District level officers regarding choice of crop as per the local agri‐climatic conditions. Such errors might lead to either underproduction thereby not enabling the farmer to cover the project cost or overproduction whereby farmers have to take recourse to distress sale thus bearing the brunt of unsatisfactory returns. As a result, economic sustainability of farmers is hampered and they are unable to repay the loans taken from banks. Thus, despite the phenomenal contribution of NHM in these areas, the problem of sustenance still looms large.
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So far as training and knowledge gaps are concerned – firstly, a group of farmers from a locality are selected with the help of local administration and the village headman. Secondly, these selected farmers need to be empowered with adequate land and access to water, power and electricity. Thirdly, selected farmers are to be made aware of the salient features of the project through meetings organised by the government. In these meetings, the District officials, the service provider and the farmers discuss the individual roles of these three key‐players of the model. The farmer should be made aware of his/her role vis‐a‐vis contribution towards the project in terms of land, labour, power, water and so on. The service provider’s role is to provide technical inputs namely polyhouses, drip irrigation, planting materials, fertilizers etc. and technical transfer in the form of periodical farmers’ trainings at various stages of implementation of the project, not forgetting the buy‐back of produce at a predetermined price as fixed by the national price index. The Horticultural Departments role is to monitor the progress, quality of inputs, time frame, and commitment of the farmers etc. in order to complete the project as per the norms. It is desirable that a MOU(Memorandum of Understanding) be signed between the farmers and service providers, with the Department being the monitoring agency. In the event of non‐compliance of the above, especially periodical trainings/meets of farmers, the consequence is utter confusion mounting to poor quality flowers, lower remuneration to the farmers and other disappointments thereby causing the entire model to fail. This aspect is very important with the view that when a farmer is given the option to change from traditional mode of agriculture to a new concept of hi‐tech floriculture, he/she has to be convinced that what they are going to venture into will provide them better returns and that is why the knowledge and training of farmers at the appropriate time is so very vital. Operational problems surface more prominently in hilly areas where the terrain itself is not appropriate for structures like greenhouses. Precious time is wasted in levelling the slope to make it suitable for recommended greenhouse constructions and so on, that could be otherwise utilised for gainful cultivation. Lack of adequate electricity is a perennial problem along with insufficient water supply particularly in the summer months which arises due to not making use of rainwater harvesting during the monsoons. This directly hampers irrigation of crops. Post ‐harvest management suffers
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due to the absence of proper cold rooms for storing the flowers after they are harvested. Many a times, there is no supply chain for flowers to be marketed to distant places. Due to the nonexistence of mandis as are common in metros like Kolkata and Delhi, farmers mainly have to take recourse to door‐to‐door delivery of flowers. Farmers are deprived from fair prices as markets are not regulated. Thus, poor logistics constantly maim the Government schemes from being implemented in the desired degree in this region.
REFERENCES :
1. Muthukumaran K op.cit 2. Ibid 3. Ibid 4. Shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in op.cit 5. Ibid 6. Ibid 7. ibid
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Chapter VII: Prospects of Floriculture
HUB & SPOKE MODEL
SPOKE/FARMER Small Unit of Hi‐ Tech Cut Flower Production suited for the area SPOKE/FARMER Small Unit of Hi‐ SPOKE/FARMER Tech Cut Flower Small Unit of Hi‐ Production Tech Cut Flower suited for the Production area suited for the area
HUB
Model Units of suitable flowers which can be grown in the region. SPOKE/FARMER SPOKE/FARMER Collection Centre/ Grading Small Unit of Hi‐ Small Unit of Hi‐ Tech Cut Flower Tech Cut Flower Hall. Production Production Training Hall suited for the suited for the Cold Rooms. area area Water Reservoir. Centralized Drip System Operated by service Providers.
SPOKE/FARMER Small Unit of Hi‐ SPOKE/FARMER Tech Cut Flower Small Unit of Hi‐ Production Tech Cut Flower suited for the Production area suited for the SPOKE/FARMER area Small Unit of Hi‐ Tech Cut Flower Production suited for the area
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In the recent past, the Directorate of Horticulture under different State Governments has made successful forays into “Low volume High value” commercial horticulture. Sustained investments and intensive area expansion of certain crops, including high end floriculture, under various schemes have led to the evolution of the “Horti Hub and Spoke” Business model which has successfully brought Government, Service Providers and farmers together in a new paradigm that is today driving horticulture development in these states. The “Horti‐Hubs” with technical assistance of Service Providers, conduct trials of these exotic crops under protected and controlled conditions after which the crops that thrive best in each hub are identified for expansion in the “Spokes” (farmers’ fields in the vicinity of each hub).Thereafter, the concerned District Horticulture Officer or ‘DHO’ and Hub Manager select suitable farming clusters (based on certain criteria) in the hinterland of each hub, train them in the cultivation of these crops, and then assist them under various schemes with a one‐time investment. The expenditure on consequent maintenance of the structures and crops (plant protection, fertilizer, labour, energy charges etc.) devolve upon the farmers. The produce are either sold by the farmers on their own or brought to the Hubs where they are graded, aggregated and bought back by the Service Providers. This is now a proven model and these Hubs are today well established entities catering to the need for trials on different crops, technology clearing, demonstration and training of farmers and extension personnel.
This model was initially developed a decade ago where the Government would choose a Service Provider and give him suitable land on which he would create an infrastructure with all modern amenities to facilitate hi‐tech cultivation of cut flowers. The selection of variety of flowers would certainly depend upon the agro‐climatic zone where this infrastructure was to be created. This led to the formation of the “Horti‐ Hub”.1 The Service Provider usually had a contract in the form of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department whereby he was obligated to deliver the inputs/technology and quality planting materials. The Hubs would sustain itself by sale of produce from this infrastructure to the Service Provider. All was well till this stage. However, complications started arising during the implementation of the next stage
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when farmers from the locality were chosen as ‘Spokes’ for cultivation of similar crops in smaller units. The produce from these units was supposedly to be brought back to the Hub where it would be graded, sorted and marketed by the selected Service Provider. This was where the scheme faced its first obstacle. The Service Provider failed to fulfil his commitments to buy back the produce from farmers (spokes). The farmers being left in the lurch, turned to the Department to market the flowers. The Department, not having the machinery to do so, invited local buyers from nearby towns to purchase these highly perishable cut flowers. This introduction of local buyers created an unhealthy competition among the local farmers/spokes that left the Government with no control over the quality of produce. Inspite of warning the farmers of unsystematic cultivation, the farmers went ahead in doing whatever they could to earn revenue which was to be given to them by the selected Service Provider. It is evident from the above that such models met with limited success till the Hubs were created. When the spokes came up, a number of problems also cropped up. Firstly, there was wrong selection of farmers when such individuals were chosen who did not have appropriate land, water, power and also lacked the commitment to contribute towards efforts in cultivation. Secondly, there was lack of professionalism from the selected Service Provider even though he had a MOU with the department. The absence of any penalty clause in the MOU along with one‐sided payment terms to the Service Provider, left the department in a no‐win situation. Based on the limited success of the Hub and Spoke model, the Department came up with a novel idea where a similar model would be followed after incorporating certain important issues. The Service Provider would be chosen after an exhaustive selection process where the selection committee would be set up by the State Government with eminent officers from various departments taking part in this process. The Service Provider would have to convince the committee of his commitment to contribute in the investment process. Thus, the Service Provider is ‘empanelled’ by the Government after an elaborate screening process during which he would have to update the Government /Committee regarding how he would implement the scheme, given his background, his financial capacity to invest, manpower, technical tie‐ups and association with both
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foreign and domestic companies for procuring planting materials, drip irrigation equipment, cold chain etc. He is also expected to set up his own greenhouse‐ manufacturing unit in the state. Furthermore, the payment terms were also to be drastically changed and calculated on the basis of the percentage of works completed in the farmers’ fields. The empanelled Service Provider is bound to get into a MOU first with the Department, spelling out the details of the technology to be implemented, agreed payment terms, time limit etc. The Department then notifies the respective DHOs to start the process of creating a business plan with the empanelled Service Provider on how this new concept can be a success with the farmers. The Service Provider is entrusted with the job of reaching out and appealing to the farmers to opt for the new concept, which is a better and more rewarding alternative in comparison to the existing agricultural activities of the farmers. The selected farmers, the District officers and the Service Provider meet regularly with resource persons brought in by the Service Provider and discuss the modalities of the new scheme where the basic issue of investment by the Department, the Service Provider and the farmers is explained. The Service Provider then gets into another MOU with selected farmers under the banner of farmers’ cooperatives where he has to spell out all issues regarding his investment, investment by the Government, the farmers’ commitment and most importantly – his price mechanism for buyback for a period of three years. His commitment to the farmers also needs to include transfer of technology for these three years. It is evident from the above that this new scheme has been devised to plug the loopholes of the previous scheme where the Service Provider enjoyed a freehand in most of the activities involved in the project such as providing promised quality inputs, quality planting materials, commitment towards the farmers, paying them proper prices on a regular basis, marketing the flowers and so on. Let us now focus on at least three locations – two in Meghalaya and one in Nagaland where Floriculture already exists amongst the farmers as a way of life. In the past, various Central schemes under the Technology Mission provided assistance to farmers and encouraged them to start floriculture as an alternative mode of cultivation. The aim
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of such schemes was primarily to introduce and encourage floriculture in these regions, taking into consideration all the agro‐climatic factors.
7.1 : Thadlaskein Horti Hub at West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya West Jaintia Hills is an administrative District in the state of Meghalaya in India. The united district (Jaintia Hills District) was created in 22 February 1972 and occupied an area of 3819 km2. The district is part of the Meghalaya subtropical forests ecoregion. With the bifurcation of the erstwhile Jaintia Hills District into East and West Jaintia Hills District, West Jaintia Hills District came into existence on 31 July 2012 with its headquarters at Jowai. Jowai is the host of all the heads of important governmental offices and establishments, educational institutions, hospitals, banking institutions. The total area of the district is 1693 km2. The district comprises one Civil Sub‐Division Viz. Amlarem Civil Sub‐Division and three Community and Rural Development Blocks viz. Amlarem C&RD Block, Laskein C&RD Block and Thadlaskein C&RD Block. Although the mainstay of the district is agriculture, however due to the abundance of Limestone, plenty of Cement factories have been set up in the district. Since it is a land locked region and there is lack of railways and airport, the only means of transportation is roadways. The main highway which runs through the district is NH 40 and NH 44. Jowai is a Municipality city in district of Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. The Jowai city is divided into 13 wards for which elections are held every 5 years. The Jowai Municipality has population of 28,430 of which 13,675 are males while 14,755 are females as per report released by CensusIndia2011. Population of Children with age of 0‐6 is 3857 which is 13.57 % of total population of Jowai (M). In Jowai Municipality, Female Sex Ratio is of 1079 against state average of 989. Moreover Child Sex Ratio in Jowai is around 970 compared to Meghalaya state average of 970. Literacy rate of Jowai city is 91.10 % higher than state average of 74.43 %. In Jowai, Male literacy is around 91.83 % while female literacy rate is 90.44 %. Jowai is well connected by roadways to Shillong which is 60 km away. The city of Jowai lies on the National Highway 44(NH 44). There is no rail or air link in the district. The nearest and convenient air and rail head serving most destinations is in Guwahati,
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Assam, about 160 km away. Shillong, the capital city, has a small airport serving limited flights to Kolkata only. Thadlaskein Horti Hub, located near the town of Jowai which is the district town of West Jaintia Hills, was selected by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya as a location where the Department would set up all the infrastructure needed for a ‘Centre of Excellence’ referred to as Hub. This Hub was to come up on Government land. The Government also selected a few Service Providers to set up their individual infrastructure in such Hubs. Florence Flora, Zopar and North Bengal Floritech were entrusted with the responsibility of completing the needed infrastructures in the form of polyhouses with suitable crops for the region, drip irrigation systems, water harvesting and storage facilities, mist/propagation chambers, cold rooms etc. within a time frame. The Department, on its part, set up grading and collection centres, farmers’ hostel, farmers’ training hall, boundary wall, electrification of the Hub with water source etc.2 Florence Flora was given the responsibility of growing Carnation and Leather Leaf. Zopar was given Chrysanthemum and Ruscus. North Bengal Floritech, in its share received Gerbera – both standard and mini varieties, Dutch Roses, Catalleya orchids and Gypsophilla.
Thadlaskein Hub, Jowai
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The purpose of setting up such a Hub was to see which flower was more suitable for the region and would be chosen for the farmer as spokes. As it turned out over the years after establishment of the Hub, the commitment of the Service Provider to build such infrastructure was also exposed. Florence Flora showed very little interest after completing their units and left the crop to be managed by the Department instead of their own staff. Zopar comparatively performed a little better in the sense that they built the infrastructure well but the staff that they had in hand to operate it proved to be too inadequate so that at times the Department was compelled to request the remaining Service Provider namely North Bengal Floritech, to complete the task and follow up with the operational procedures that was actually not its responsibility. Also, when it came to honouring the commitment to pay the farmers for their produce, Zopar kept such issues pending for a considerable period of time. These are glaring instances of lack of professionalism exhibited by selected Service Providers where they dishonour the MOU signed with the Department of Horticulture leading to the failure of the model to live up to the lofty expectations. That left North Bengal Floritech who, as per the record from the DHO, fulfilled all its commitment to the Department as well as the farmers and worked on the basis of ‘Build‐Operate‐Transfer’3 of technology to bring about a notable upliftment in the quality of life in the region. Not only did they put up state‐of‐the‐art infrastructure, they also replicated the same at the farmers’ field. They have their staff constantly maintaining their units at the HortiHub on one hand, as well as paying regular visits to the farmers’ field and finally paying the farmers a fair price on a regular basis. Jaintia Hills have been selected by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya as the ‘Gerbera District’. This name was chosen for this district as there were several success stories amongst farmers who were selected by the DHO and were successfully partnering with North Bengal Floritech (NBF) – the Service Provider for the region. It may be observed that in this district, NBF –the Service Provider has fulfilled all the commitments towards the farmers and the Department and has been regularly purchasing the flowers produced from both the Hubs and the farmers. It is perhaps the first occasion after a very long time that the entire infrastructure in the Horti‐Hub is being successfully utilised on a professional basis.
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To set an imitable example of practice of hi‐tech floriculture, NBF adopted latest technologies to bring out the best output, both in terms of quantity and quality. The inputs for hi‐tech cultivation of Gerbera in the Thadlaskein Horti‐Hub adopted by the Service Provider are as follows – Hi‐tech polyhouses were erected. The basic structure was made of ISI‐make GI pipes of various diameters with uniform thickness of 2mm. They were used along with GI nuts, bolts, clamps etc. The foundation was of telescopic insertion in cement concrete and a central height of 6metres and gutter height of 4.5 metres. Two fibre‐glass doors, with anti‐chamber, were also installed. The cladding was of Ginegar‐make 200 micron 5‐ layered UV Film. 50% and 20% shadenets of white colour were used.
Hi‐Tech Polyhouse at Thadlaskein
For bed preparation, a classic combination was created by thoroughly mixing good soil, rice husks and Farm Yard Manure. Beds were made perfectly suitable for Gerbera cultivation. Basal doze with Super Phosphate and Magnesium Sulphate was mixed with the soil thoroughly, prior to finishing the beds. These beds were highly porous – which is an important prerequisite for Gerbera cultivation. The beds were then fumigated with Hydrogen Peroxide and Silver, after which plantation was carried out with six plants per square metre specification. It is to be noted here that the crown of the Gerbera plant was always left above the bed level during plantation due to the fact that Gerbera is susceptible to Crown Rot disease.
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Gerbera Poly House with Drip system Gerbera flowers in bloom
Drip lines with in‐line drippers maintaining a spacing of 3metres and 1.3 LPH were installed between two rows of plants i.e. one drip line per bed. Overhead 4‐way Foggers were also installed @ 2.5m x 2.5m spacing.
Driplines for Irrigation
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Foggers at work inside the Polyhouse
The drip system was usually started after about 21 days from planting, with appropriate dozes of N:P:K. Foggers were used to add relative humidity during the winter months . Usually flowers started blooming after a period of 3‐4 months post plantation and achieved peak production after a period of eight months and continued till the next two and a half years, before which the plants had to be changed along with alterations in bed preparation etc.
Farmer waiting for her turn to deposit the flowers in Collection Centre
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The Collection Centre at Thadlaskein.
Farmers bringing flowers to the collection centre at Thadlaskein Hub
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When the flowers are ready, the farmers bring their flowers to the collection centre from their spokes (individual small units) where it is accepted, graded and packed for despatch and marketing by the NBF staff in the presence of Department officials. The farmers are fully aware of the quality of the produce required for a better price from NBF. This quality awareness has been taught to the farmers through various Farmers’ Meets and field‐visits by NBF in the presence of Departmental staff. Payments, for the flowers collected, are regularly made by NBF at the Hub to the farmers, once in two months. Price of the produce is determined by on‐going market prices prevailing in the region. The Service Provider adopts both fixed price and variable price model, depending upon the crop.
Grading, sorting and packing of flowers at Thadlaskein Hub.
Even though crops such as Gerbera, Catelleya orchids, Dutch Roses, Chrysanthemums, Ruscus, Leather Leaf, Gypsophilla, to name a few, are being grown in the Horti Hub, it was only Gerbera that was selected as the principle crop for the new scheme with NBF as the empanelled Service Provider. The DHO selected progressive farmers and new farmers with the appropriate land, water and power facilities to undergo training at the Horti Hub with the Service Provider and his technical team of resource persons for Gerbera cultivation under the new revised Hub and Spoke model. Care has been taken in selecting farmers to form clusters that helped in collection of produce during harvest. The selected farmers were given exhaustive training at the existing units of the Hub with reference to the prevailing crop problems, pest management, agronomy, fertigation and techniques of harvesting. To make matters simple for first timers, NBF started the novel concept of displaying the types of pest and disease that affect Gerbera in the region by way of laminated photographs at the farmers’ training centre in the Hub. These laminated displays also furnished the remedial measures. NBF, on its
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part, also maintained a ready stock of pesticides and fertilizers at the Hub from where the farmers could readily collect, as and when required.
Picture of disease pest management calendars and notices at the collection Centre.
Farmer’s Training on gerbera cultivation at the Training Centre ,Thadlaskein Hub,
Jowai.
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Thus, Hi‐tech polyhouses of 200sqm sizes were set up at the selected farmers’ clusters followed by installation of drip irrigation system, soil fumigation, bed preparation and finally plantation. NBF embarked on the journey of following a particular business plan of maintaining these units professionally by transferring appropriate technology for obtaining optimum quality and volume of Gerbera flowers produced in these units. NBF, on its part, invested in post‐harvest management by way of cold rooms, precooling chambers and teaching farmers to grade their flowers in the farmers’ field and bring the graded flowers to the collection centre where NBF would pack these flowers and send them for marketing. This entire process of investment by NBF would contribute to approximately 20‐25% of the unit cost.
Precooling Chamber & cold room at Thadlaskein Horti Hub
It is this combination of Government contribution by way of one‐time investment to the farmer in the form of setting up the infrastructure through NBF, coupled with the investment made by NBF and finally the contribution of the farmers by way of providing land, labour and management that makes the entire project a success. The Government’s investment in such a scenario would approximately be 60‐70%. NBF’s contribution would be 20‐25% and that of the farmer would be around 10%.
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INVESTMENT SCHEME
Out of 100
State Govt. 67 %
Service Providers 23 %
Farmers 10 %
INVESTMENT DETAILS i) STATE GOVT(63%): Green House Drip irrigation Planting Materials DG Set Fertilizers and Pesticides Bed Preparation etc. ii) SERVICE PROVIDERS (23%) Water Harvesting Structures‐ GENAP Fertilizers & Pesticides in excess of State Share Transfer of technology Packaging and Forwarding Cold Chain iii) FARMERS Land Labour
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The crux of such a scheme is to provide a viable, feasible option to the farmer as compared to the existing mode of agriculture practised by the farmer, where he can earn money on a daily basis. If such a system is followed, it is anticipated that the farmer, within a time period of 3‐4 years will have enough capital to finance his further expansion of cultivation of Gerbera under this scheme at his own cost.
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Table 7.1.1 List of spokes in Thadlaskein and their production and return in financial year 2014‐15
Sl APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR No Name of Farmer 2014 2015 TOTAL Rate(Rs) Earning(Rs) 1 AIRI SHADAP 143 469 964 790 280 40 49 95 35 0 0 15 2880 3 8640 2 AIRIT SARI 0 687 1153 534 324 573 1160 695 621 130 0 1255 7132 3 21396 3 BETHEL TALANG 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 99 110 12 32 253 3 759 4 BIANGKA SUNGHOH 165 46 63 208 185 207 1281 790 203 350 318 1191 5007 3 15021 5 BICHAR RYMBHAI 5658 3826 2216 720 363 281 725 945 517 0 445 3488 19184 3 57552 6 BILANTI LAMARE 2809 777 634 484 378 135 213 313 235 60 144 215 6397 3 19191 CORINTH DIANA 7 DHAR 167 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 95 262 3 786 8 DELBINA PYNGROPE 2311 1535 620 944 841 942 1926 1875 1379 709 685 855 14622 3 43866 9 DIMILTON GATPHOH 0 0 497 512 508 490 688 571 497 222 48 337 4370 3 13110 10 EMILIN TALANG 2336 1779 517 382 761 415 431 413 326 160 293 772 8585 3 25755 11 ESTARIUS SHYLLA 2333 581 698 318 455 586 802 235 297 143 180 650 7278 3 21834 12 HAMMUT SARI 747 222 6 207 453 210 697 609 486 552 400 493 5082 3 15246 13 IALAM DKHAR 0 0 758 1255 172 110 175 563 467 183 178 279 4140 3 12420 14 IRIS LAMARE 1484 1171 617 287 231 55 560 158 90 0 80 294 5027 3 15081 15 KISHON KHARSHNOH 505 302 802 938 1071 615 955 765 833 616 0 450 7852 3 23556 16 LEWANKI SARI 62 232 174 83 0 0 114 166 22 40 25 60 978 3 2934 17 LINDA LAMARE 12468 9669 4390 1964 1147 803 1699 1853 801 397 1290 2304 38785 3 116355 18 M. LANGSHIANG 227 0 0 117 124 136 170 80 49 30 0 225 1158 3 3474 19 MAYALANG PASSAH 9110 4524 3060 580 177 0 446 768 772 586 870 2988 23881 3 71643 20 SHIT SARI 3396 1444 489 382 608 764 966 401 255 210 250 1075 10240 3 30720 21 TIKNABHA PHALANKI 3126 1798 604 37 318 491 848 1178 1158 842 1019 1251 12670 3 38010 22 VALAREEN GATPHOH 4947 5085 3782 1550 1023 722 1093 1342 672 333 269 3489 24307 3 72921 23 WAKA WANKI LAMRE 0 0 0 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 110 70 220 3 660
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Table : 7.1.2 : Expected output and estimated return from traditional agricultural crops of spokes in Thadlaskein in financial year 2014‐15
SL Name of Farmer Potato Paddy Maize TOTAL No. Expected Market Earning Expected Market Earning Expected Market Earning EXPECTED Produce Price A (Rs) Produce Price B (Rs) Produce Price C (Rs) INCOME (Kgs) (Rs.) (Kgs) (Rs.) (Kgs) (Rs.) A+B+C (Rs.) 1 AIRI SHADAP 200 25 5000 5000 2 AIRIT SARI 250 17 4250 80 25 2000 6250 3 BETHEL TALANG 300 25 7500 7500 4 BIANGKA SUNGHOH 150 17 2550 60 25 1500 4050 5 BICHAR RYMBHAI 300 17 5100 300 25 7500 12600 6 BILANTI LAMARE 300 25 7500 7500 7 CORINTH DIANA DHAR 300 25 7500 7500 8 DELBINA PYNGROPE 450 17 7650 7650 9 DIMILTON GATPHOH 250 25 6250 6250 10 EMILIN TALANG 300 17 5100 5100 11 ESTARIUS SHYLLA 300 17 5100 5100 12 HAMMUT SARI 250 25 6250 6250 13 IALAM DKHAR 230 25 5750 5750 14 IRIS LAMARE 250 25 6250 6250 15 KISHON KHARSHNOH 350 17 5950 5950 16 LEWANKI SARI 150 17 2550 2550 17 LINDA LAMARE 350 17 5950 300 25 7500 13450 18 M. LANGSHIANG 80 25 2000 2000 19 MAYALANG PASSAH 350 17 5950 80 25 2000 7950 20 SHIT SARI 250 25 6250 6250 21 TIKNABHA PHALANKI 250 25 6250 6250 22 VALAREEN GATPHOH 500 17 8500 8500 23 WAKA WANKI LAMRE 300 25 7500 7500
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Fig 7.1.a : Comparison between income from Hi‐Tech Floriculture and estimated income from Traditional Agriculture on same plot of land by farmers in Thadlaskein in financial year 2014‐15
140000
120000 Hi‐Tech Floriculture(Rs.) 100000 Traditional Agriculture(Rs.)
80000
60000
40000
20000
0
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Careful observation of Table 7.1.1 reveals that only four out of the listed 23 farmers are earning in excess of Rs.50,000 per year. Three farmers with annual earnings of less than Rs. 800 have exhibited complete lack of commitment. There is a possibility that they are selling their flowers individually, instead of handing them over to the Service Provider. On the contrary, the farmer with the highest production and earning has proved how commitment and dedication can lead to such high levels of success. If she can earn in excess of Rs. one lakh, then the rest can take a leaf from her book and display similar degree of commitment. The difference in earnings of the two most successful farmers in this Gerbera Cluster, is over Rs.40,000. From the record at the Collection Centre at Thadlaskein, it is evident that these farmers have regularly collected their share of fertilizers and pesticides and sought help from the Service Provider’s team during pest attacks or other such problems. Whereas, the unsuccessful farmers have unfortunately been careless in maintaining their polyhouses and skilfully supervising the production procedure that tells upon their low production and income levels. It is distressing to discover that some farmers use the polyhouses to dry their clothes, some grow vegetables instead of gerbera flowers and some showed absolutely no care or concern. On enquiring, some farmers disclosed that they were selling their flowers directly to unauthorised persons who would come to their farms and collect the flowers but they refused to disclose the income from such transactions. Such farmers are generally found absconding but suddenly surface at the Thadlaskein Hub when the unscrupulous buyers themselves go missing and the flowers remain unsold. The Department is contemplating taking action against such farmers who have shown utter disrespect to the agreement between the Department, the Service Provider and the Farmers. The encouraging fact as is evident from Figure 7.1.a is that, on an average most of the farmers get returns far more in excess of what they could expect while growing traditional crops on their land, prior to the introduction of this SPOKE model. Only three farmers are expected to earn more from traditional agriculture and that is mainly due to their extreme lack of interest and enthusiasm in hi‐tech cultivation. Hence, it has been observed that five years back Jaintia Hills had witnessed no tangible progress in floriculture in the absence of proper technology, quality inputs, reliable Service Providers and a progressive role of the Government that had led to the farmer
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being primarily engaged in cultivation of paddy and/or maize and managing to earn just a meagre income. Leave aside selling their produce and enjoying a decent living, the crop cultivated was mainly for self‐consumption. Compared to the farming practices five years ago, Jaintia Hills can now boast of systematic hi‐tech cultivation of Gerbera cut flowers for a large number of farmers using the local agri‐climatic conditions and the introduction of the new system of farming. Currently, the farmers are not only able to grow paddy and maize as they were doing previously, but also cultivate flowers side by side. This amounts to their earning a higher income that enhances the purchasing power of the otherwise poor farmers and directly leads to their enjoying a better and more decent standard of living. Encouraging signs can be noticed where more and more farmers are coming forward and approaching the Government to give them allocation for such units. This may be cited as a definite tilt towards modernisation where the farmers are showing encouraging signs of shifting from traditional to more commercial forms of cultivation. However, there are certain factors that tend to slowdown the process. The major hurdles are – 1) Extreme climatic conditions – During the months of March, April and May there are chances of hailstorm that may destroy the polyfilm of the structures and also the crop inside. 2) Change of seasons – When the seasons change, there are dangers of pest attack. To prevent this, the farmers are encouraged to use more pesticides thereby increasing the cost of production. 3) Unethical selling practices by farmers – During the season time, the farmers sell their flowers to ‘flying’ customers at a higher rate, not honouring the commitment given to the Service Provider and the Government. These farmers usually suffer a loss in the long run as the Service Provider and the Government stop providing them with promised inputs, technology transfer and marketing of flowers. 4) Logistics – Frequent road‐blocks, local strikes, landslides, traffic jams etc play havoc in the despatch and distribution of flowers from the Hub to the different markets. As Jaintia Hills has a very large section of coal traders, the highways are usually choked with coal‐laden trucks travelling to Guwahati and causing immense hardship to
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commuters, emergency services as also to transportation of flowers. Sometimes it can take more than twenty four hours to cover a distance of 40‐45 kms when there is traffic congestion. The option of local sale is also ruled out as there is huge quantity of flowers already piled up at the collection centre. The above factors negatively affect the quality of flowers to be marketed to towns like Guwahati/Siliguri/Kolkata and therefore fair prices are not available. This again directly mounts to the Service Provider suffering heavy losses. The main motive of the Department of Horticulture in applying the Hub and Spoke model at Thadlaskein in West Jaintia Hills was to make the farmers self‐sufficient in floriculture without having to depend on the Government to provide them with the necessary infrastructure every year. The scheme has been implemented successfully. Thadlaskein stands out as a remarkable example of how barren land can be constructively transformed into an outstanding model farm as well as Horti Hub, a successful endeavour where Government money is well‐exploited. The Hub attracts numerous tourists, officials from the State and Central Government, as well as foreign visitors who marvel at the outstanding consequence of PPP. The high quality flowers grown here find their way in renowned exhibitions, both in and outside the country. Thadlaskein has thus helped in grooming Floriculture from a low‐key to a high‐profile sector of the economy. It is hoped by one and all that the day is not far away when West Jaintia Hills will attract the attention of the international market and boast of a proud position in the Floriculture map of the world. Success stories at Jowai. Linda Lamare, a Gerbera grower is one of the few farmers who is consistent in her flower sales. She has two polyhouses of 500Sqm each, which were given by the Department of Horticulture. She sold 38785 pieces of gerbera cut flowers in 2014. She earns around Rs. 120,000 on an average annually.
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Linda Lamare from Jowai
Valareen is another Gerbera grower from Jowai. She also has three poly houses of 200 sqm, given by the Department of Horticulture of. She sold 25307 pieces of Gerbera cut flowers in the year 2014 and thereby kept earning, on an average, about Rs. 80,000. Before practising protected cultivation of flowers, she simply grew potatoes to earn around Rs. 10,000/month. After embracing floriculture, her monthly income shot up to Rs. 40,000. She started with one polyhouse of 200 sqm and gradually two more to now maintain 3 units and plans to expand more in the future. All family members lend their hand in planting, nurturing, growing and harvesting flowers so that no additional expenditure is incurred as wages on hired labour. Once their hard work bears fruit in the form of radiant flowers, they need not worry about selling them as the marketing aspect is taken care of by the Service Provider of the Horti‐Hub. Due to the escalated income from floriculture, she can now afford to send all her threee children to school and has upgraded her humble home to a big pucca house with modern amenities like television, refrigerator etc.
Valareen Gatphoh from Wahiajer
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Elias Ryngkhlem, in the past, cultivated vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes etc. and earned around Rs. 10,000/month. Post introduction to floriculture, he discontinued with vegetables and concentrated only on flowers. He still earns a little over his earlier earnings but opts for flowers only because of the help provided by the government and also because the headache of marketing and selling his produce is not his but the Service Provider’s. His farm is quite far away from the Hub but he need not worry about transporting his produce to the collection centre as many a times that is arranged by the Service Provider too. All his family members contribute to the production process and no extra labour is required. It is within his means now to spend more on the better education of his six children, renovate and extend his old house and give shape to a new better living. He even plans to buy his own vehicle soon. He currently owns three polyhouses of 200sqm and wishes to continue with floriculture for his living, even when assistance from the Government stops.
Elias Ryngkhlem from Nartiang
Supplyme Sari from Mukhla village was a student who started working for the Service Provider in Thadlaskein from the year 2011. Soon, encouraged by the prospects of floriculture, he applied to the Department of Horticulture for a polyhouse. At present
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he juggles both his private job and floriculture simultaneously. Over and above his monthly salary floriculture gives him an additional income of around Rs. 10,000/month. He presently maintains two polyhousesof 200sqm and desires to expand more. Floriculture has boosted his confidence level as with his elevated income he has purchased his own vehicle, is building a new house and can take better care of his parents and thus be a stable support system and a pillar of strength for them.
Supplyme Sari from Mukhla
Ibadarihun Talang has recently stepped into floriculture with a gerbera polyhouse of 160 sqm. Previously she grew various vegetables like carrots, cabbage, cauliflowers, coriander, peas etc. and also reared animals like pigs. Recently, she has complemented her previous mode of farming with flowers. Lured by the prospects of higher income in a shorter span of time, she opted for floriculture. A great relief is that the cumbersome process of marketing her produce that she has to undertake in case of vegetables, can be avoided in case of flowers as her job is over once the flowers reach the collection centre. Although more care is to be taken of flowers, the fact that lesser time needs to be devoted to grow flowers than vegetables and that it gives them better returns more easily is the driving force behind their choice of cultivating flowers.
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IbadarihunTalang from Nartiang
ChirupPasi is another farmer practising both open and closed farming at the same time. The lady of the house, while growing ginger and potatoes in the open, now also owns a gerbera polyhouse of 200sqm. For the husband, who works at the Jaintia Hills Autonomous Council, floriculture is a part‐time occupation. The extra income generated from flowers is welcome as they can now save more to ensure a secured future for the family and their children.
ChirupPasi from Nartiang
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In some of the remotest corners of Meghalaya where hi‐tech protected cultivation of flowers have blossomed, with the sale proceeds of the flowers, remarkable changes have been observed in the lifestyles of these growers in the past few years. Many have been able to purchase vehicles, extend their old houses or build bigger ones and even send their children outside the state to study.
7.2 : Mairang Horti Hub at West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya The Khasi Hills are part of the Garo‐Khasi range in Meghalaya (before 1970 part of Assam), and is part of the Patkai range and of the Meghalaya subtropical forests ecoregion. The region is inhabited mainly by tribal Khasi dwellers. The region came under the Khasi Hills district, which was divided into West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills districts on 28 October 1976. Mairang is a town and a town area committee in West Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya. It is located at about 40 km from the state capital Shillong, and 45 km(approx.) from the district headquarters, Nongstoin along National Highway 44E (Shillong‐Nongstoin‐Tura). Mairang is located at 25.57°N 91.63°E. It has an average elevation of 1564 metres. As of 2011 India census, Mairang had a population of 14,363 of which 7083 are males while 7280 are females. Mairang has an average literacy rate of 82.20%, higher than the national average of 74.04%: male literacy is 87.68%, and female literacy is 88.69%. In Mairang, 19.01% of the population is under 6 years of age. It is a locality based primarily on agriculture. It enjoys four seasons of the year with a maximum temperature of 30°C in summer and 1°C in winter. This particular town, along with its surrounding areas, was selected for the cultivation of Carnation cut flowers as it fulfilled all the requirements for growing such a crop. This area being a perfect example of mainly an agricultural based economy, the farmers, who are mostly housewives, cultivate paddy in the monsoon and vegetables in winter to earn a living. To introduce a welcome change, the Horticulture Department embarked on an ambitious scheme of introducing the Hub and Spoke model here again with the exception of the Spokes coming up first, followed by the Hub. This was due to the fact that some minor land disputes arose between the Government and the local administration in the area where the Hub was to be set up.
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Mairang Horti Hub at West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
The basic infrastructure such as collection room, grading and sorting room, packaging room etc was set up by the Service Providers, namely North Bengal Floritech or NBF and Zopar Exports Private Limited. In this case too, the farmers were selected by the District Horticulture Officer. Then joint meetings were held with farmers, Service Providers and Department officials as per usual practice. For the first time, resource persons from other parts of the country like KF Bioplants from Pune and Netafim India were invited. Language being the only barrier between them, a local translator was invited to translate into the local Khasi language.
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The Small Farmers’ Agri‐Business Consortium or SFAC in Shillong played an active role then. Zopar had the responsibility of three polyhouses–two 1000 sqm units of Carnation and one 400 sqm unit of Gerbera. But unfortunately Zopar failed to live up to the expectations. Since they were unable to deliver satisfactorily, NBF was ultimately designated as the sole Service Provider. Consequently, a farmers’ association was set up with the election of President, Secretary and Treasurer. The Service Provider was also included as one of the members of this association that was named ‘Mairang Flower Growers’ Association’. The next stage was the joint inspection of land, water and power availability by the Department and the Service Provider. In the meantime, the DHO issued orders to the Service Provider i.e. NBF to supply the inputs required for the cultivation of Carnation under hi‐tech polyhouses. It is to be noted here that the inputs to be provided by the Service Provider was laid down in the terms and conditions of the MOU signed between the DHO, West Khasi Hills and NBF – the Service Provider. The Service Provider worked with a schedule where the entire infrastructure including plantation of Carnation plants would be completed by the months of August or September so that the first flush would appear during the peak winter months. The total area of the Mairang Horti‐Hub is around 10 acres under which hi‐tech cultivation of Carnation and Gerbera Mini was undertaken by the Department. The Department also undertook measures for water harvesting and storage of water by way of erecting two numbers of 50,000 litres capacity Demountable Genap water tanks imported from Netherlands. Besides growing Carnation and Gerbera, the Hub has also been developed into a nursery for stone fruits plants such as plum, apricot, pear and other nectarines.
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GENAP Water tank at Mairang Hub
On an experimental basis, some raspberry, blackberry and blueberry have been imported from the United States and is being successfully cultivated under tunnel greenhouses with drip irrigation systems. Netafim drip and sprinkler irrigation systems are being used for both greenhouse and open field crops. Even though the volume of produce generated from this Hub is not very large in terms of value and numbers as in Thadlaskein Horti‐Hub, but is sufficient enough for the farmers in nearby areas to be educated in the cultivation of Carnation and mini Gerbera. Polyhouses with areas of 200sq m of size 10.00 x 20.00m were set up with Gineger‐ make 200 micron, five‐layered UV film, appropriate 50% white shade net on the roof and side curtains. Netafim drip irrigation systems including controlled unit, which housed the filtration and fertigation systems, and the drip manifold with flushing system was also installed inside the polyhouse. 1000litres PVC water tank with 1HPmotor was included. The farmers were taught how to prepare the beds of Carnation as per the growing manuals of KF Bioplants. Appropriate basal doze of Farm Yard Manure (FYM), Single super phosphate, magnesium sulphate and Biozyme Granules was mixed with the soil.
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Inner and outer view of Polyhouse in Mairang Hub
It is to be noted here further that the basic Carnation support‐netting was placed over the beds prior to plantation. Two drip lines per bed for four rows of plants were also put in place. Manual irrigation was carried out by the farmer for a period of 21 to 25 days after which drip irrigation with fertigation was initiated.
Control Unit of a Drip Irrigation System
All these stages of cultivation was taught to the farmers by the Service Provider and Resource Persons in various Farmers’ Meet with live demonstrations as the Hub was not by then ready with the required infrastructure and demo plots. Necessary pinching of plants and adjustment of support netting with the growth of the plant was
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supervised by the farmer. It was seen that after a period of three to four months, the first flush appeared in the fields and the farmers were taught the correct time to harvest and the proper technique of harvesting and bringing the flower stems to the collection centre. It was here that the Service Provider graded and sorted the flowers and sent them to the market. The farmers were given challans that mentioned the grade and number of flowers. The Service Provider usually adopted both fixed price and variable price model, depending upon the crop. This process was continued till the first flush ended, after which the farmers were paid their dues by the Service Provider.
Farmers bringing the harvested Gerbera and Carnations to Collection centre,Mairang
Hub
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Grading and sorting of Carnation cut flowers
During this process, regular visits were made to the Hub by the technical staff of the Service Provider to ensure that correct pest‐control measures were being undertaken and also verify that the infrastructure provided to the farmers were being properly used. This guaranteed production of good quality flowers and in return the farmers could enjoy a remunerative price. Cluster farming proves to be an advantage in this respect in the sense that since all the farmers cultivate the same crop it becomes easier to market the flowers in bulk. However, for the first batch of 25 farmers, about 15 farmers were successful in their venture and the remaining 10 needed more commitment. This process was started in the year 2009‐10 and till date there are more than 100 farmers in this cluster. Recently, the Service Provider has undertaken an “Incentive drive” by calling a farmers’ meet with the DHO at the Hub and awarding prizes to the deserving farmers. The feedback has been very positive with many success stories emerging at the farmers’ level. In such Farmers’ Meets, the farmers can also directly interact with the visiting technical expert, discuss and seek a first‐hand solution to the problems faced by them during cultivation.
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Farmers’ training at Mairang Hub
Prize distribution to successful farmers by District Horticulture officer
There is however one issue which needs to be addressed. Since the farmers were being provided with the entire infrastructure, free of cost, by the Department and the Service Provider during the first year, the quality of the flowers was commendable. But it was during the second year that the farmers would have to pay from their own pocket for
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the cost of fertilizers and pesticides which led to most of the farmers losing interest and backing out. Yet, the scheme remained a success as every year around 25‐30 new farmers were added to the previous year’s list and the chain was not broken. The continuity of supply of flowers, though small in quantity, kept the scheme alive. A practical problem cropped up at the time of paying the farmers after having collected flowers from them. It was noticed that due to the risks involved in making payments in cash, the payments often got delayed. A combined effort made by the District Officials and the Service Providers concerned in convincing the farmers to open bank accounts in any bank near the Hubs, which would facilitate payments through cheques, fell to deaf ears with the farmers. In a rural economy, where farmers do not have any inclination of keeping their money in banks, the idea of the Department did not yield adequate response. Another issue that posed as a stumbling block was the requirement to maintain a minimum balance with the bank. This was again not readily accepted by the farmer, who basically preferred only cash transactions. However, things transformed for the better when the Hon. Prime Minister of India Sri Narendra Modi announced the ‘Jan DhanYojana’ where a zero balance was needed to open an account. It was so planned that the bankers came to the Hub personally and arranged to open on‐the‐spot, new, zero‐balance accounts of the farmers. Ever since this new endeavour, payments are now made only through cheques. This also has a direct positive effect on the savings ratio in the economy. Previously, the farmers in these areas were used to one‐crop cultivation and earning money on a single occasion throughout the year. Their income would generally not create any savings or if so would hardly ever be mobilised into banks or any deposit schemes. The money would often be squandered away and not be invested for any productive purpose, thereby leaving the farmers penniless soon after and forcing them to approach the Department for further subsidies or financial assistance.
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Table 7.2.1 : List of Spokes in Mairang and their production and return in financial year 2014‐15 : Unit (Number of stems of flower produced)
Sl APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR No Name of Farmer 2014 2015 TOTAL Rate(Rs) Earnings(Rs) 1 AnjaleeMarwein 5367 14549 2847 2573 5063 2213 1401 1154 912 593 413 978 38063 3 114189 2 Arjes 1148 3778 1075 598 462 318 168 230 57 0 105 129 8068 3 24204 3 Biolin 2813 5018 936 587 855 348 679 243 0 0 0 540 12019 3 36057 4 Clemency Jyrwa 1412 5440 868 1765 1671 1135 554 307 153 77 128 109 13619 3 40857 5 Deidedo 3861 6478 1210 962 573 412 393 572 356 431 487 1012 16747 3 50241 6 Diolin 1229 1889 83 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3201 3 9603 7 Hamida K Mawlong 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 19 29 18 80 471 620 3 1860 8 HabrarianWarjri 1723 3446 1493 1278 1262 1618 1334 1078 717 408 556 1023 15936 3 47808 9 Hilbert Marwein 2522 4188 1646 4274 3948 2077 1039 794 441 93 85 129 21236 3 63708 10 J. C Dora 1038 6623 2079 3046 2569 727 1585 1235 760 759 706 1592 22719 3 68157 11 Joyfully 186 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 78 0 53 13 330 3 990 12 M. Kurbah 114 0 0 80 0 0 0 0 0 0 151 760 1105 3 3315 13 MeraSyiemlieh 2143 9862 2135 336 964 1590 1425 887 647 418 234 107 20748 3 62244 14 MolitaSyiemlieh 0 0 0 18 472 516 360 127 68 10 0 0 1571 3 4713 15 PhiarsiMarwein 2312 4607 1970 2387 2895 2419 1252 818 722 532 779 1358 22051 3 66153 16 SheltinaWahlang 1964 2103 189 142 292 89 47 70 10 33 75 48 5062 3 15186 17 Sister 0 256 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 256 3 768
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Table : 7.2.2 : Expected output and estimated return from traditional agricultural crops of spokes in Mairang in financial year 2014‐15 :
SL Name of Farmer Potato Paddy Maize TOTAL No. Expected Market Earning Expected Market Earning Expected Market Earning EXPECTED Produce Price A (Rs) Produce Price B (Rs) Produce Price C (Rs) INCOME (Kgs) (Rs.) (Kgs) (Rs.) (Kgs) (Rs.) A+B+C (Rs.) 1 ANJALEE MARWEIN 300 15 4500 240 17 4080 160 25 4000 12580 2 ARJES 155 15 2325 80 25 2000 4325 3 BIOLIN 160 15 2400 200 17 3400 5800 4 CLEMENCY JYRWA 160 15 2400 200 17 3400 5800 5 DEIDEDO 150 15 2250 120 17 2040 70 25 1750 6040 6 DIOLIN 150 15 2250 2250 7 HAMIDA K MAWLONG 150 15 2250 2250 8 HABRARIAN WARJRI 200 15 3000 150 17 2550 60 25 1500 7050 9 HILBERT MARWEIN 200 15 3000 150 17 2550 80 25 2000 7550 10 J C DORA 300 15 4500 240 17 4080 8580 11 JOYFULLY 0 12 M KURBAH 120 17 2040 2040 13 MERA SYIEMLIEH 250 25 6250 6250 14 MOLITA SYIEMLIEH 250 25 6250 6250 15 PHIARSI MARWEIN 150 15 2250 150 17 2550 80 25 2000 6800 16 SHELTINA WAHLANG 100 17 1700 200 25 5000 6700 17 SISTER 240 17 4080 4080
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Fig 7.2.a : Comparison between income from Hi‐Tech Floriculture and estimated income from Traditional Agriculture on same plot of land by farmers in Mairang in financial year 2014‐15.
120000
100000 Hi‐Tech Floriculture(Rs.)
80000 Traditional Agriculture(Rs.)
60000
40000
20000
0
Source : Primary data collected by the researcher during 2014‐15.
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Analysing the trend of production of Carnation flowers in Mairang Cluster, the following observations may be noted – Production of carnation is at its peak in the summer and monsoon months but drops drastically in the winter months. The probable reason for this could be the shortage of water then and the extreme cold climate which cools the soil beyond cultivable temperatures, result being the plants unable to uptake the nutrients from the soil due to extreme cold conditions. Moreover, sunlight is also diffused during this period. The Table 7.2.1 throws light on the fact that from a sample of seventeen, around five farmers have displayed complete lack of commitment inspite of receiving full support from the Government and the Service Provider. Seven other exceptional ones have proved beyond doubt that committed effort on the part of the farmers can yield handsome financial returns. It has been demonstrated that income from a small piece of land engaged in hi‐tech floriculture is regular and spread throughout the year. Earning in excess of Rs.50,000 in a year from a small plot of land was completely unheard of prior to introduction of such ‘SPOKES’. Usually paddy, potato and maize were grown on such land and that too mostly for self‐consumption. Based on the level of sincerity, marked difference may be observed on the levels of production and income between the highest and the lowest grower of carnation flowers. Insincere farmers left the group in the year 2014 due to lack of effort and enterprise but enthusiastic new farmers, who joined in, have more than compensated their exit and hence helped the chain to continue without a break. Combined hardwork of dedicated farmers have paved the way for commendable success of the scheme. The vast difference in income earned by farmers who are committed to floriculture is evident from Figure 7.2.a, with exception of 4 among the listed 17, who have failed to derive advantages that hi‐tech cultivation offers. To the rest, the augmented income generated by floriculture has prompted them to accept hi‐tech cultivation of flowers as an attractive option to traditional agriculture. Visits to farms and interview with the farmers make it evident how the additional income from protected cultivation of cut flowers has paved the way for their economic prosperity. Some farmers have now purchased cows and are selling milk. Some are rearing goats for sale of mutton while some have started piggery and selling pork. Besides, affinity towards better living in the
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form of fashionable clothes, better education, painting and renovation of the existing houses as well as construction of new ones are proofs of an improved lifestyle. During personal interaction, such happy and hospitable farmers enthusiastically share their cherished experiences after being included in such a scheme. They are full of praise and gratitude towards the Government for boosting their morale in the shape of Departmental assistance and towards the Service Provider for keeping his commitment to purchase all the flowers throughout the year and ensure regular and consistent payment for them. Stimulated by the success, some farmers were even contemplating to approach the Service Provider to enter into a partnership with the Service Provider and the banks for further expansion of Spokes without any Departmental help. This, in reality, is the complete success of the ‘Hub and Spoke’ scheme in Mairang for Carnation flowers as the Department’s aim to provide an initial thrust for such an effective business venture has led to socio‐economic betterment in the village of Mairang where farmers are in a position to expand their business with their own resources, without seeking any help from the Government. This was possible due to the genuine effort on the part of the Government to provide all necessary assistance to the farmers and the sincere Service Provider who played a major role in supplying quality inputs, ensuring transfer of technology to the farmers, purchasing all the flowers produced and paying regularly to the farmers as per his commitment. Therefore, the farmers no longer need to relive the nightmare where they were left in the lurch by unprofessional buyers, who abandoned them after initial few months of purchase of flowers from them. Recently, to enhance efficiency among the successful farmers and in recognition of their ardent labour and performance, a system of awarding prizes to the farmers has been introduced in three categories – (1) Highest number of stems grown (2)Most consistent supply of flowers and (3)Best quality of flowers provided throughout the year. The farmers not only look forward to these awards but also compete in a better and healthier manner amongst themselves thereby mutually benefitting out of it. Success Stories: Phiarsi Marwein owns a 200 sqm polyhouse of Carnation. Previously, she cultivated paddy and vegetables like maize and potato to earn her living. After harvesting, the
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responsibility of selling her produce in the local market was on her shoulders. With her earnings, she could barely make both ends meet. Then she tried her hand at floriculture from the year 2013 and impressed by the prospects, took it up as her fulltime occupation. This enabled her to earn Rs.25000 in a span of three months. So she now grows vegetables only for self‐consumption and concentrates mainly on flowers. In contrast to the time when she would struggle to survive, she can now pay for better education for all her three children and even afford to send her son to college in Shillong. She was awarded the second prize for high production of best quality carnation in the year 2015. In her words – Floriculture has come to them as a miracle from God to improve their lot.
Phiarsi Marwein from Mairang
When Anjalee Marwein was engaged in practising traditional agriculture only, his produce of vegetables that he sold himself in the local market, fetched him a yearly income of Rs.40,000 that was almost entirely spent on feeding his family. But his life morphosed once he took to hi‐tech protected cultivation of flowers the whole year round. His earnings are a handsome Rs.114189 now and it is within his means to educate six out of his seven children and even save some money after meeting all necessary expenditure. He did away with hired labour that was required for growing vegetables. Now, during the week he works alone and on the weekends the entire family, along with the children join hands in cultivating flowers in the two polyhouses – a 500sqm unit of Carnation and another 200sqm unit of Gerbera.
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Anjalee Marwein from Mairang
Jesidora Kurbah received the first prize for highest production of best quality Carnation in her polyhouse of 500sqm. Prior to floriculture, she grew a variety of vegetables namely potatoes, squash, tomatoes, maize, beans, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower etc. the whole year round that she had to lung to the local market to be sold to earn around Rs.70,000 annually. All the money used to be spent in supporting her family. But with the introduction to floriculture, her income spiralled to Rs.90,000 in three months and she narrowed down to a few vegetables like potatoes and maize, to focus more on flowers. The additional income was a great help to utilize for different purposes like catering to higher education of her children due to which one of her daughters have become a teacher, renovating her old house and opening up avenues for saving – something she could not imagine earlier. She need not worry about marketing her produce either. She faces no problem at all in hi‐tech cultivation and though she works herself, indulges in hiring labour from outside when the burden seems too heavy, as now she can easily afford to do so. Cultivating flowers, which she started as an experiment, has become the love of her life.
Jesidora Kurbah from Mairang
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Dawadlin L. Mawlong is a fresh entrant to floriculture who earlier used to be a housewife. Within a few months she has already tasted success with an income of Rs.15000 in three months. She looks after their 200sqm Gerbera unit and her husband who was previously an auto‐driver, has joined her now. With the revenue earned from flowers, she sends her three children to school, repairs and renovates her house and has also started saving on a regular basis.
Dawadlin L Mawlong from Mairang.
Badendar Rani practised traditional agriculture and animal rearing which she supplemented by a 200sqm Gerbera unit since 2013. Her mornings and evenings are devoted to caring for flowers while during the day she works in the open field. She needs to hire no additional labour. Being single, her confidence level is boosted with her handsome earnings which she intelligently invests in the bank to ensure a secure future for herself. She was awarded the first prize for the highest production of best quality Gerbera in 2015.
Badandor Rani from Mairang
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Such success stories have served as an inspiration to fellow farmers to explore the prospects of better living and augmented income generated by sincere ventures in floriculture. As a result, in remote corners of Meghalaya, inception of floriculture as a source of living has been instrumental in achieving a socioeconomic emancipation. 7.3 : Dimapur Horti Hub at Nagaland Nagaland is basically an agrarian state having been endowed with favourable agro‐ climatic conditions and a rich bio‐diversity of flora and fauna. However, shifting cultivation is deeply embedded in the hearts of the farming community, which is deleterious in its effect. This is where Horticulture can play a dominant role by being an attractive alternative to Shifting cultivation. Horticulture has been practised by the people since ancient times with almost every household maintaining a backyard garden filled with one or more horticultural crops. During recent times, horticulture sector has received much attention, in the State with the efforts of the Department of Horticulture combined with the eagerness of the people in taking up Horticulture as an enterprise. Horticulture has thus infiltrated into the lives of people from every walk of life, from the unemployed youth to the housewives.4 With the end of the 11th Five Year Plan and the beginning of the 12th Five Year Plan, the Department envisioned revolutionizing the Horticulture sector and ushering in a new era of change in the State through adequate optimized Horticulture production for achieving income stability, nutritional security, sustainability and generating attractive employment opportunities for a more socio‐economically developed State.5 Floricultural sector makes a considerable contribution to the horticulture production in the State. Unlike food plant production, most floricultural products do not feed the body, but rather the human soul. Keeping in mind that this psychological contribution is not to be minimised, the Department, during 2014‐15, has undertaken protected cultivation of flowers for year‐round production of flowers in which naturally ventilated tubular structures will be provided, including planting materials to the farmers with an earmarked allocation of Rs.430.00 Lakhs covering 48500 sqm areas. With this, the Department envisages developing Floriculture on a large scale, to meet the ever‐ increasing demand of flowers in the market.6
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Pic 1: Protected cultivation of flowers in Nagaland.
Fig 7.3.a : Production of Lilium in Nagaland (No.) 1800000 1600000 1400000 1200000 1000000 800000 Production of Lilium in 600000 Nagaland (No.) 400000 200000 0
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
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Fig 7.3.b : Area Under Lilium Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 3 2.66 2.5
2 2.06 1.88 1.7 1.5 Area Under Lilium 1.13 1 1.068 Cultivation in Nagaland 0.86 (HA.) 0.6 0.5 0.41 0
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
Fig 7.3.c : Production of Anthurium in Nagaland (No.) 3500000
3000000
2500000
2000000
1500000 Production of Anthurium in Nagaland (No.) 1000000
500000
0
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
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Fig 7.3.d : Area Under Anthurium Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 3.5
3 3.04 2.92 2.76 2.5 2.609 2.5
2 1.921 1.5 Area Under Anthurium Cultivation in Nagaland 1 (HA.) 0.69 0.5 0.35 0 0
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
Fig 7.3.e : Production of Rose in Nagaland (No.)
2500000 2100000 2000000 1820000 166560017230401700000 1740000
1500000 1106000 1000000
500000 350000
0 0 2005‐06 2006‐07 2007‐08 2008‐09 2009‐10 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13 2013‐14
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
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Fig 7.3.f : Area Under Rose Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 2.5
2.15 2.1 2 2.082 1.82 1.7 1.74 1.5 1.58
Area Under Rose 1 Cultivation in Nagaland 0.7 (HA.) 0.5
0 0
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
Fig 7.3.g : Production of Orchid in Nagaland (No.) 250000
200000
150000
Production of Orchid in 100000 Nagaland (No.)
50000
0 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13 2013‐14
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
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Fig 7.3.h : Area Under Orchid Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 1 0.94 0.9 0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 Area Under Orchid Cultivation in Nagaland 0.4 0.42 0.34 (HA.) 0.3 0.2 0.16 0.1 0 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13 2013‐14
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
Fig 7.3.i : Production of Gerbera in Nagaland (No.) 700000
600000
500000
400000 Production of Gerbera in 300000 Nagaland (No.)
200000
100000
0 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13 2013‐14
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
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Fig 7.3.j : Area Under Gerbera Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 0.7 0.64 0.6 0.6
0.5 0.44 0.4 Area Under Gerbera 0.3 Cultivation in Nagaland (HA.) 0.2
0.1
0 0 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012‐13 2013‐14
Source : Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland. Demand for flowers and its decorative forms amongst people is on the rise in Nagaland, which has made floriculture a profitable business for farmers across the State. Nagaland's favourable climatic and geographical conditions also offer tremendous scope for floriculture. Based on their accessibility and agro‐climatic suitability, Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha and Dimapur districts have been selected for commercial production of flowers. High demand in both the domestic and international markets for flowers like Roses, Lilium, Anthurium, Alstroemeria, Dendrobium and Phaleonopsis orchids and Carnation has also led the State Horticulture Department to expand the business for commercial production. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs are investing in the rapidly growing floriculture market, which also has the potential to contribute considerably to the growth of agriculture sector and the economy of the State. Dimapur, a commercial hub, is also considered the gateway to Nagaland. This town is strategically located having borders with Assam and acts as a lifeline to the state of Manipur. It is connected both by rail and by air so logistics is not a problem. This town
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boasts of a very diverse business community that include the Nagas, Marwaris, Nepalis and some Bengalis. Floriculture in this town started sometime during 2004‐2005 under the Technology Mission of the Centre. In Nagaland, the Horticulture Department located at Kohima, acts as the Central agency which allocates various Service Providers to different districts for the transfer of technology on ‘Build‐Operate‐Transfer’ model. If we look at Dimapur on the whole, it was till recently known as the Anthurium‐ growing area of Nagaland. However, in the year 2011, the Department of Horticulture realised that Anthurium as a flower was not proving to be commercially viable to the farmer due to high input costs and low returns. Farmers were becoming increasingly restless to achieve commercial viability. A number of factors were responsible for such a scenario, a major one being the fact that the quality of water available at Dimapur was not suiting the Anthurium crop as a whole. Water‐borne diseases such as Xanthamonus played havoc with the crop. Moreover, it being a commercial hub, farmers devoted less and less time to floriculture and diverted their time to trading activities. It was then in the year 2010‐11 that the Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland invited some of the Service Providers of the region to discuss and come out with a solution regarding commercial floriculture as a whole in Nagaland. Discussions at length were held on various issues like the ones mentioned above along with logistics, militancy, agri‐climatic zones, proper farming practices, attitude of the farmer towards such schemes etc. Decision was ultimately taken that each Service Provider would be given separate districts of the State with flowers that suited the agri‐climatic zone. Zopar Exports from Meghalaya was allocated Mokokchung district for Rose crop. Florence Flora from Bangalore was given Kohima district for Lilium and Alstroemeria and North Bengal Floritech from West Bengal was given the responsibility of cultivating Gerbera, Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium orchids for Dimapur. Let us now focus our attention on Dimapur region and examine to what extent hi‐tech floriculture has prospered in this zone. Cultivation was to be carried out on a commercial basis in the farmers’ field only. As suitable land required to set up a Hub was not available to the Department, the Service Provider, with the help of the
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Department, selected only a few farmers in 2012 and set up units for the cultivation of Gerbera cut flowers, Dendrobium and Phalaenopsis orchids around Dimapur. Marginal farmers, who had sufficient land but could not manage to carry out any cultivation due to low income, were selected. The aim of this practice was to provide an attractive alternative mode of cultivation from which they would derive a regular source of income. The Service Provider also shouldered the responsibility of supplying the inputs, commissioning them at the farmers’ field, teaching the farmers the mode of cultivation, pest management, fertigation and harvesting and finally arranging for 100% buy‐back of the produce – in broad terms – ‘Build‐Operate‐Transfer’ of technology. The Service Provider namely NBF set up its headquarters at the State Horticulture Nursery or SHN at 5th Mile. The Company repaired and furnished the already existing grading, sorting, packing and cold rooms. A tactic understanding was made between the Service Provider and the Department of Horticulture whereby the Service Provider could use the repaired infrastructure at SHN to collect flowers from farmers, grade them, pack as well as despatch them. In other words, infrastructure of the Department, that was otherwise lying idle, was now being constructively used on a rental basis. The Dimapur horti hub is better known as Green Park. It has demonstration plots for guava, litchi, mango, banana etc and polyhouses for flowers and a citrus nursery. It houses a tissue culture laboratory too. The infrastructure present in SHN is similar in line with Thadleskein and Mairang in Meghalaya i.e. a cold room for preserving flowers (Pic 7), grading and sorting room (Pic 5) and packing rooms for flowers (Pic 6) as well as for fruits and vegetables. There is a learning and demonstration centre for farmers and also a training centre where all farmers’ trainings are conducted (Pic 2 & 3).
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Pic 2 : Learning and demonstration centre for farmers at Dimapur Horti Hub
Pic 3: Farmers training in progress with practical demonstration
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Pic 4: Polyhouse and Shadehouse where flowers are cultivated
Pic 5: Inner view of Grading & Sorting room Pic 6: Outer view of pack house
Pic 7: Cold room inside Pack House for preservation of flowers
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But unlike the practice in Meghalaya, the collection of flowers does not take place in the Hub. There is no collection centre where the flowers are brought. The farmers either take the flowers to the Service provider directly or have them sold themselves. An added attraction in Green Park is it is an amusement park too with boating facilities, a cafeteria and other recreational facilities which is open on weekends for the public who can enjoy their leisure hours going around the hub. This also serves as a good source of revenue for the Department. The overall operation of the infrastructure is controlled by the Service Provider, in coordination with the District Horticulture officer of Dimapur. It has also been observed that with the funds generated from Green Park, the overall maintenance and cleanliness of SHN has improved dramatically. The Service Provider introduced for the first time what no one ever thought of earlier – the concept of a “Farmers’ Meet” consisting of the selected farmers, Department officials and the management of NBF together with resource persons, before initiating the project. This effort was solely aimed at explaining to the farmers the role of the Department as a monitoring agency, the role of the Service Provider and most importantly the role of the farmer. It is important to note here that previously as no such efforts were made in earlier schemes, the farmers assumed that the Department and the Service Provider would do everything for the farmer on his land and give him periodical returns. This particular attitude of the farmer had actually ruined the whole concept in the past. The Department having realised the importance of such Farmers’ Meets prior to the implementation of the schemes, quickly made it mandatory for other Service Providers working in different districts. Having already explained to the farmer his/her role in providing land, which has access to clean water and electricity, and most importantly the physical effort on a daily basis that the farmer needs to put in to achieve commercial viability of such projects, the Service Provider then went on with its task of supplying and commissioning the quality inputs as promised in the farmers’ field. However, just prior to plantation another series of Farmers’ Meets were organised in order to explain the plant management, pest management, fertigation schedule etc. After completion of plantation, expert technical staff would regularly visit the farmers’
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fields and assist the farmer in diagnosing and solving problems, if any, and also see to the overall crop management. Gradually, this resulted in getting quality flowers from growers. The Service Provider on its part added another dimension to this ‘Build‐Operate‐ Transfer’ model by opening up an outlet of its own where it would collect the farmers’ produce and use it for retailing. This was primarily evolved to overcome the problem of absence of a suitable collection centre that the Department failed to provide. The aim was to generate employment for local youths and teach them the nitty‐gritty of post‐ harvest management. In due course, a cold room was also built next to its retail outlet to help preserve flowers during the off‐season. Flowers are now being sold from Dimapur to customers in Guwahati, Siliguri and Kolkata. One very interesting thing about the farmers in Nagaland is that they do not solely depend on the service provider for the marketing of the flowers but they have tie ups with the different churches in their localities who use fresh flowers every Sunday for the church and sell the flowers on a regular basis. They also sell in wholesale to the local florists and wedding planners. In fact, in Kohima, recently three farmers have opened up their own flower shops which not only sell their own produce but also buy from other growers thereby doing their own marketing. The flower growers have also formed an association named the Flower Growers’ Association of Nagaland, which comprises of all the flower growers in Nagaland who want to be a member of the association. They cater to the needs of the members by being the spokesperson for their needs and grievances as well as to promote floriculture as a means of livelihood and economic development for the so‐called housewives. This Association also holds Flower exhibition‐cum‐competitions annually to showcase as well as to encourage others to be participative in floriculture. Recently this association has published a coffee table book named “Blooming Tales” which has different designs of flower arrangement as well as bouquets and is readily available in the market to be purchased. Other prominent Service Providers like Zopar, Florence Flora and Mega Star are also successfully supplying inputs and installing polyhouses for flowers like Lilium, Alstroemeria, Rose and also engaged in open cultivation of heliconia.
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Now let us highlight a single farmer who is cultivating Phalaenopsis, Gerbera and Dendrobium simultaneously at a location of Padum Pukhri area of Dimapur. Mrs. Bendangla Ao is a housewife with inherited land that was lying idle for many years. She lived in Kohima and left the land to be tilled for paddy only during the monsoons by nontribal Bangladeshis. The Service Provider assigned for this region quickly spotted her willingness to be a part of this venture and singled out her potential after regular counselling. She agreed to give only a part of her land to set up units for each of the flowers on her land but only for a period of three years after which she would assess her returns. The Service Provider took it up as a challenge as it was a unique case and with the help of the Horticulture Department successfully set up each unit for Phalaenopsis, Gerbera and Dendrobium. Crop and pest management technologies were exchanged with her on a regular basis to keep her updated on problems she might encounter in the future. Gerbera plants were procured from KF Bioplants, Pune – the pioneer of Gerbera Tissue Culture Plants in India. Phalaenopsis plants were imported from FloriCultura, Holland – a company of international repute and Dendrobium orchid plants from STK Orchids, Thailand. A shadow‐hall type of greenhouse was set up for cultivation of Phalaenopsis in UV stabilized pots with coco fibre and coco pit as growing medium. Netafim Arrow Dripper irrigation system, with fertigation, and Four‐way foggers for misting were installed in this shadow‐hall greenhouse.
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Pic 8: Automation introduced in Irrigation System, Control Unit and fertigation tanks
used for Hi‐tech Floriculture
For the cultivation of Dendrobium, hi‐tech tropical open vent naturally ventilated polyhouse, with black shade nets, was set up. Sterilized coco husk blocks were placed in bamboo tables inside the greenhouse. Netafim overhead sprinkler systems were arranged. Finally, for Gerbera, hi‐tech open vent naturally ventilated polyhouse with white shade net was put up. Bed preparation with appropriate quantities of good quality earth, FYM, rice husk and sand were mixed and beds as per specifications were made. Bed fumigation was carried out with an eco‐friendly product known as crop shield – a mixture of Hydrogen Peroxide and Silver, which actually oxidises the soil. In this polyhouse, Netafim Drip Irrigation
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systems facilitate fertigation. For misting, overhead four‐way foggers were incorporated inside the greenhouse. It was observed that Gerbera went into production within the first four months of plantation and produced quality flowers that fetched good prices for her. Dendrobium orchid cut flowers went into production within the first eight months of plantation. Phalaenopsis flowers started appearing within the first nine months of plantation. When these flowers hit the Dimapur market, a lot of interested farmers started enquiring about these uncommon flowers as they were not accustomed to see such unique varieties in Dimapur market where Anthurium was the only flower visible and that too on an irregular basis.
Pic 9: Mrs Bendangla in her Phaleonopsis Poly house of 1008 SqMtr at Padum Pukhri,
Dimapur.
Mrs. Bendangla grows twelve varieties of Phaleonopsis and on an average gets around 8000 stems per season. She sells both the cut flowers as well as potted Phaleonopsis. She has a gross income of 8‐8.5 Lacs per annum. It is to be noted here that Mrs. Bendangla Ao has built a house at the farm at Padum Pukri and is engaged full time in this project. She has opened a bank account in Dimapur where the returns of her flowers are deposited by the Service Provider. She has also visited similar other projects
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in Meghalaya to exchange views with farmers there. It is heartening to note that Mrs. Bendangla no more talks about a ‘time frame’ for which she is ready to reconsider giving a part of her land for floriculture. This is because she has gained enough experience and money to establish her own house at the farm, successfully employed six local Nagas at her farm and is now considering further expansion of her floriculture cultivation with the help of her bankers without depending on the Horticulture Department for giving her further units. This is an ideal success story of how, with the help of a dedicated Service Provider, a farmer who lived in Kohima and earned meagre returns by selling paddy grown on her land in Dimapur, has transformed into a successful businesswoman/entrepreneur in floriculture. Mrs. Bendangla has recently entered into an agreement with the Service Provider to jointly explore event management in the ‘AO’ community of Dimapur where she would supply the flowers and the Service Provider would use its expertise in value addition, depending upon the event and the profit, on a 50‐50 basis. Mrs. Bendangla has set a glorious example for housewives in her community to prove that if there is a will, there will definitely be a way to self‐sustenance. The Horticulture Department, too, was prompt enough to note this success story and is in the process of negotiating new deals with competent service providers for the benefit of progressive farmers in the district of Dimapur. Another notable lady is Mrs Akruzu Putsure, who has two anthurium units in Sovima, Dimapur which was given by the Department under HMNEH during the nascent years of floriculture. She has depended neither on the Department nor the service provider for marketing her produce but is sending her Anthuriums to New Delhi on a regular basis. Mrs. Narola is another flower grower who is based in Nepali Kashiram, Dimapur. She has a unit of 500Sqm to grow Anthuriums, which was given by the Department under HMNEH. And she expanded her Anthurium polyhouse by additional 500 SqM with the help of the profit from the sales of her produce. Not only has she planted green fillers like Golden Bottle brush, Jasmine etc. along with other open crops like Heliconia but she also markets it to local florists in Dimapur and Kohima. She has even taken up the
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task of flower arrangement in the Nagaland Civil secretariat, Kohima office on a weekly basis where she gainfully uses her floral produce. This is how in the state of Nagaland, floriculture has undergone a total transformation from a minor backyard activity to a major mode of achieving self‐reliance. Opting for modern hi‐tech farming practices as their livelihood, simple farmers and common housewives have empowered themselves with financial self‐sufficiency, success and prosperity. Their feeling of accomplishment has enthused them as well as other onlookers to take a step ahead to evolve as successful entrepreneurs in this sector. Floriculture has flourished and gone a long way in boosting the economy of the state. 7.4: West Bengal Scenario The state of West Bengal has a long tradition of growing flowers of different types, comprising the high value cut flowers on a low scale and sizable production of low value loose flowers of various types. West Bengal has been the highest producer of cut flowers, of over 250 crore pieces, in the domestic market and recorded the highest compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 597% during five‐year period of 2007‐08 and 2011‐12, the Associated Chamber of Commerce of India or ASSOCHAM noted in a study conducted in the year 20147. This has happened despite shrinkage in area under floriculture in the State. West Bengal was also at the top in terms of share of flower production (about 34%) in the country’s total output of 740 crore pieces in 2011‐12, the industry body said. West Bengal ranked eighth in terms of production of loose flowers. The State produced about 64,000 tonne loose flowers clocking a CAGR of over 7% during the aforesaid period. The country's loose flower production was growing at a CAGR of over 17% as India produced over 16.5 lakh tonne annually. The area under flower production in the State, however, shrunk from about 27,000 hectares in 2007‐08 to about 24,000 hectares in 2011‐12 thereby registering a fall at a CAGR of over 3%, the study prepared by the ASSOCHAM Economic Research Bureau (AERB) in 2014 found. Share of West Bengal in the area under flower production across India also plummeted by 7% during the period ‐ from about 16.5% share in 2007‐08 it came down to 9.4 per cent in 2011‐12, the study said. The annual turnover of floricultural crops in West Bengal is estimated to be Rs. 90.00 crore. 45% of the entire cut flowers of India are produced in West Bengal at this
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juncture. West Bengal is also the entry point for the entire North East including Sikkim pertaining to logistics of floricultural items. The contemporary escalation rate of floriculture in West Bengal is about18%. This depicts the enormous potentiality of this segment. West Bengal is the leading state in cut flower production in terms of area. Out of 18 districts, the cultivation of flowers is mainly concentrated in six districts namely Nadia, Purba and Paschim Midnapore, Howrah, Darjeeling and North 24 Parganas. The major crops are Rose, Gladiolus, Tuberose, Gerbera, Carnation, Anthurium, Chrysanthemum, Aster and Orchids. Potential returns of cut flowers are Rs. 70000 per ha while in loose flowers potential return can be up to Rs. 40000 per ha or more depending upon the market demand.8 West Bengal is the third largest producer of flowers in the country. Cut flowers, bulbous flowers, traditional flowers and high‐end exotic flowers like orchids adorn the production basket. The main flowers cultivated are rose, carnation, gerbera, tuberose, jasmine, marigold and hibiscus. The inception of modern and up‐to‐date cultivation techniques in the form of protected cultivation practised in green houses, post‐harvest assistance and use of quality planting material has left an indelible mark on the floriculture sector in West Bengal, which is also otherwise naturally blessed with all types of agro‐ climatic conditions favourable for growing a variety of flowers. As estimated in the year 2012, in West Bengal, the area under cultivation for flower crops was about 17,328 hectare as against 1,06,477 hectare at the national level. Production of loose flowers in the state was about 43,575M.T. and production of cut flowers was about 8,766.6 lakh in numbers. At the national level, loose flower production was about 5,34,576 M.T. and cut flower production was about 25,647 lakh in numbers.9 ASSOCHAM (2014) said that about two lakh people were estimated to be involved in cut flower production in the State of West Bengal10. Lakhs of workers are engaged in trading of floricultural products, market promotion and subsequent value addition. West Bengal supplies flowers, foliage and pot plants to different domestic markets in India.
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Floriculture is a powerful tool of generating employment opportunities that thereby also serves as an effective means of poverty alleviation. Moreover, it is also a shining example of agricultural diversification that proves to be a viable livelihood option, significantly for the rural poor. The agricultural sector, plagued by overcrowding, can divert surplus labour to be gainfully engaged in floriculture. The requirements and mode of operation in floriculture are different from that of typical traditional farming. Various stages of floriculture namely cultivation, production, sales, marketing etc, demand huge employment of labour, both male and female. Hence, the immense contribution of floriculture towards generation of employment and absorption of surplus labour force among population who are heavily dependent on agriculture and allied activities, is unparalleled. This not only ensures better living for the individual but is also a boost to the quality of life of millions of poor in the country, when viewed on a broader perspective, as well as proving to be an encouraging source of earning foreign exchange. It is time that the state of West Bengal too acknowledged the untapped potential of floriculture and attended to its progress and development with the gravity that it deserves. The Government, scientists, policymakers, research scholars and entrepreneurs can join hands to make this dream a reality. The State has been inflicted by marginalization of size of landholding and in this era of liberalization, can make use of the boon of floriculture. The export profile of the country will also experience a welcome fillip. Unfortunately, certain dismal facts dampen the tempo of progress. For example, statistical data of floriculture is still scattered and messy while its agronomy remains to be a matter of personal experience gained through practice and traditional farming. But there is hope amidst adversities. In West Bengal, floricultural activities are expanding with the assistance of National Horticulture Mission Fund. Till 2012, 2,500 hectares were brought under flower cultivation. The expansion started in 2006‐07 with Rs. 100 crore from the National Horticulture Mission Fund. The Techno‐Economic Feasibility report on the Scope of Development of Horticulture in West Bengal, prepared by Agricultural Finance Corporation Limited (September,2010) states that more than 5.2 million workers were engaged in various operations of the floriculture enterprise in the state starting from production to marketing, which made an approximate turnover of Rs. 245 crores annually. To make the marginal or small farms
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economically viable area‐specific crop diversification towards high value, labour intensive crops, viz. vegetables, fruits and flower cultivation has been suggested by research organizations. In different parts of West Bengal and in different parts of India there have been attempts to produce high value crops. But, it is a mere fact that increasing marginalization of size of holdings in India as well as West Bengal’s agriculture has become a matter of concern to the policy makers. Considering the changing global economic situation along with making the small and marginal farm‐ dominant economy more viable, there have been attempts to produce export‐oriented non‐conventional, high‐value, labour‐intensive crops like vegetables, fruits, betel and flowers. Thus the scope and prospect of floriculture in West Bengal is soaring high in prominence and prosperity overtime.11
In general, the agro‐climatic conditions of West Bengal are favourable for commercial cultivation of different high value flowers. The ambient minimum and maximum temperature varies between 4°C to 40°C. The rainfall and light intensities are congenial for cultivation of a variety of flowers. Except for a few pockets, soil condition is also suitable for commercial cultivation of flowers. Hence, a number of commercially significant high value flowers like lilies, rose, tulip, chrysanthemum, carnation, gerbera, alstoemeria, anthuriums, calla lilies etc can easily be grown with success in selected areas of West Bengal under protected conditions. Besides, the agro‐climatic conditions of Darjeeling district and adjoining areas are highly suitable for cymbidium and other high value orchids like dendrobium, vanda etc. In the Plains of Bengal, the most important commercial flower growing pockets of Southern Bengal are Kolaghat, Panskura and Tamluk areas of West Midnapore district and adjoining areas of Howrah district including Bagnan, Ghoragacha and Deulti areas and Ranaghat of Nadia district. Besides, Panagarh and Bainchi areas of Burdwan district have come up to occupy an important place in the floriculture map of West Bengal. West Bengal State Fruit Processing and Horticulture Development Corporation Limited have developed a wing at Mullickghat Flower Market adjacent to Howrah Bridge, which plays a key role in the development of floriculture in the State. The Market provides big
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outlet to the growers and traders for sale and purchase of flowers and involves the growers directly for export. 7.4.1: Status of Protected Cultivation in West Bengal Greenhouse cultivation is necessary to produce quality plants and flowers as production in the open air unfortunately may be a victim of the vagaries of nature. Under the greenhouse the plants are protected from ultraviolet radiation, hails, strong winds, heavy rainfall, very low temperature, frost, pests and diseases. Sadly, in West Bengal greenhouse cultivation of flowers is still in a dormant stage and needs immediate attention. Modern greenhouses with temperature control facilities are required extensively to get increased production of quality flowers. Some improvements have been noticed in recent years. In districts of Nadia and Jalpaiguri, the Government is providing 50% subsidy in making greenhouses with drip irrigation for cultivation of flowers and vegetables. However, the number in this regard is too few when compared to other states. Hence, considering the pace of development of commercial floriculture in other states of India, this progress is negligible and concrete steps need to be taken on a priority basis. The need of the hour is a whole hearted effort to ameliorate the dismal situation regarding procurement and distribution of export quality planting materials, to develop a chain of modern greenhouses to extensively grow quality flowers under protected conditions, to establish cold chain from the production site to the destination markets and departure terminals, to develop flower markets with infrastructures like cold storage, grading and packing facilities and also to develop data base on production and marketing of floricultural products. These measures are essential to keep pace with the development achieved in other states and also to remain in the business of commercial floriculture. 7.4.2: Shortcomings in the Floriculture Value Chain in West Bengal (a) Lack of Awareness regarding Protected Cultivation: Horticultural developments through applications like Drip Irrigation, Green House construction, Plastic Mulching and Low Tunnels have not been accepted in the farmer’s field to a great extent. Use of low tunnels, shading nets and artificial nets are needed to be promoted as a part of improved technology for protected cultivation. Awareness building through on‐farm trials and testing are essential.
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(b) Lack of Standard Cultivation Practice: A location and variety specific package and practices are to be standardized, especially involving low cost technologies. It should also include standard spray schedule. (c) Lack of Awareness regarding Post Harvest handling of Flower Crops: Awareness building measures regarding the post –harvest techniques of different flower crops requires intensive planning and field level application. (d) Lack of Infrastructure for Cool Chain management: Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture is working on this problem. (e) Severe Fluctuation in Market Price: Depending on the festival season, there is tremendous variation in day to day price of flowers. Highly perishable produce like flowers demand an appropriate marketing plan that will be implemented with utmost precision and on time. Regulation of price is an urgent need. Absence of production planning has quite often given rise to gluts in the market which in turn is the outcome of failure of required market intelligence like information about the extent of demand in different seasons. As the ultimate price depends on the availability in the major markets, the distance and access to these markets affects the returns to the grower. Hence, the grower needs to be guided on the choice of the product. 7.4.3: Sikkim’s tryst with Floriculture As against the sombre situation in West Bengal, a sharp contrast may be witnessed in the tiny neighbouring state of Sikkim. Using the cold climate to its advantage, Sikkim forayed into commercial floriculture in 2006 as part of the Union Ministry of Agriculture’s horticulture mission for North‐eastern and Himalayan states. Sikkim focussed attention on high value and low volume horticulture crops, which include exotic vegetables, spices and flowers. The state government has been working relentlessly with a target of bringing all cultivable land under organic farming by 2015, which is likely to bring floriculture under organic farming too, by default. By the year 2013, nearly 5,000 farmers had been introduced to floriculture and are growing cymbidium orchid, gerbera, lilium, carnation and rose. Sikkim produced flowers worth Rs.20 crore s in the year 2012, which is no small achievement for a state that has only 600,000 people. Of the Rs. 3,700 crore flower market in India
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dominated by rose, Sikkim is trying to capture the top end of the cut flower trade with pricey orchids which stay fresh for a month in a vase. At present, cut flowers are being sent to Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Mumbai, while potted plants are sold in North‐Eastern states. The success tasted in floriculture has not been a cakewalk. Delivering flowers to faraway markets is a perennial problem. The only route is National Highway 31A, which leads to the rail network at Siliguri and the nearest airport at Bagdogra, both in West Bengal and about four hours from Gangtok. Marketing the flowers is not easy either. Only about half of the farmers, who were initiated into commercial floriculture, have agents or are associated with federations, which collect and transport produce from farms to markets outside Sikkim. The rest depend on local sales. Despite several such challenges, Sikkim remains undaunted in fulfilling its goal in acquiring a strong foothold in commercial floriculture.12 7.4.4: Exemplary Initiatives undertaken in Floriculture in West Bengal Despite the fact that the state of West Bengal has been blessed with abundance of rainfall, fertile soil and favourable climate for both open field and protected cultivation of flowers, hi‐tech floriculture has not managed to lay a strong foundation, particularly in North Bengal. Only a few handful of progressive farmers are adventurous enough to dabble in the trade of hi‐tech cultivation of cut flowers here in West Bengal. Though Floriculture has flourished considerably in the districts of Nadia, Medinipur and Kalimpong Hills notably in West Bengal, the major thrust in this field in North Bengal was delivered by some private entrepreneurs to start Gerbera cut flowers under protected cultivation. In the year 2004, Bandhunagar Agro Farms (BAF) was launched as a private initiative with the aim of setting up a Floriculture Hub where both open field and protected cultivation was to be undertaken. With the aid of NHB and State Government schemes, in this farm, five polyhouses have been set up till date covering a total area of 1.50 acres. This farm currently grows Gerberas, Anthurium, Dendrobium orchids and Vanda orchids under hi‐tech polyhouses and seasonal flowers like Gladiolus and Asiatic Lillies in approximately 2 acres of open field cultivation. This agro farm has integrated into a full‐fledged Floriculture Hub with the help of NHB and West Bengal Horticulture
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Department where cut flowers are also graded, sorted, packed and marketed. It is the only such unit in West Bengal where all major activities of floriculture can be viewed under the same roof.
Floriculture Unit in Bandhunagar Agro Farm, District‐ Jalpaiguri, West Bengal.
Protected cultivation of Gerbera and Anthurium.
Protected cultivation of Venda and Dendrobium Orchid.
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GENAP water tank for Irrigation Grading and Sorting of flowers
Since its inception in 2004, the turnover of the farm has increased manifold. It is believed, after interacting with the concerned farmer at BAF, that with a team of just 10 employees in the farm, he is successfully growing the above‐mentioned flowers and marketing them in Assam, Siliguri, Kolkata and Ranchi. Sometimes buyers show up from Nepal and Bangladesh too. A post‐entry quarantine facility for orchids has recently been set up at BAF to facilitate the import of hi‐valued orchid plants which are later being grown in this farm.
Post Quarantine Facility at Bandhunagar Agro Farm
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In this manner, BAF has spearheaded the drive to establish floriculture as a viable agribusiness option. It has been proved by BAF that if floriculture is pursued with seriousness and sincerity along with proper assistance of Government agencies, then a success model in Floriculture can be deftly sculptured13. Darjeeling – the northernmost District of the Indian state of West Bengal situated in the foothills of the Himalayas is better known for its high‐grown teas and for the glimpses of Mt. Kanchenjunga one catches from several spots. However, Kalimpong also situated in the same foothills, is more readily identified with varieties of colourful flowers grown there. Commercial culture of these ornamentals supports livelihood of hundreds of smallholder farmers. Seeing the salubrious ambience of the hills various ornamental plant varieties of temperate origin were introduced by the Europeans. The region has also been home to some indigenous orchids and other species. These factors together with the enterprise of some local farmers led to floriculture being taken up on a commercial basis and Kalimpong emerged as its main centre. It evolved as a hub of hundreds of small farmers centred round a few lead growers, called ‘nurseries’. Their farmlands are situated at altitudes ranging from 100 metres to 1500 metres above m.s.l. The situation enabled the nurseries to organise production of wide variety of ornamentals, ranging from those adapted to tropical conditions, to those normally grown in temperate climates. Darjeeling hills are the natural home for countless orchid species like Cymbidiums, Vandas, Dendrobiums, Paphiopedilums, Lycaste, Odontoglossum, Phaius, Arundina etc.the list being endless. The development of commercial floriculture in Kalimpong is also attributed to entrepreneurial skills of some lead nurserymen as well as to application of innovative techniques for making the production more efficient, for example, tissue culture for mass propagation; choice of right growing media and containers; building orchid houses best suited under local conditions etc. The nurserymen passed appropriate package of practices to primary growers who through their hard labour converted floriculture into a successful farming operation. The cash income from cultivation of flowers and vegetables helped secure their livelihoods.
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Kalimpong‐grown flowers, bulbs, pot plants, etc., were sold in markets within as well as outside of India. On the whole, the going was good for nursery business in Kalimpong. In the past several decades the nurseries of Kalimpong area was very much involved and buzzing with floricultural activities and developed their own techniques in tissue culture propagation of orchids and other related floricultural plants. In Kalimpong itself we have about four nurseries propagation. Exports from these hills also started 5‐6 decade back. For the unlimited scope in the present multi‐million dollar floriculture industry, these hills are the natural habitat for innumerable plant species and thus much has been achieved till date by our floriculturists. However, this region still has enormous potential. With the global floricultural trend these hills have limitless scope for production of Gladioli cut flowers to cater to the demand of both the domestic as well as the export market. Cut flower started trade over three decades back. Today other cut flowers, besides Gladioli are Anthuriums and Amaryllis, Orchids particularly Cymbidiums, bulbous flowers of lilies, ornithogalum and other flowers like Gerberas, Carnations and greens like ferns are under production. The individual units in this area might be small due to the hilly terrain but farmers are very progressive and have been exporting planting material around the world. Recently, a 1.5 acre unit for Anthurium cultivation has also been set up by a progressive farmer in Darjeeling Hills. Many more similar projects could come up if various schemes provided by the Centre to the State of Sikkim and other North Eastern States, could be introduced in West Bengal which shares the same agriclimatic zone. This would encourage more progressive farmers to take up agriculture and floriculture as their mode of living. Greater regions would develop as Hubs of floriculture activities, thereby enriching the quality of life of all those associated with it. If a model farm like BAF could be treated as a centre of excellence/Hub by the Government of West Bengal, then smaller spokes in and around the area could be encouraged. Farmers who are presently indulging in cultivation of tea leaves, that has quite an unpredictable market, can earn a better living by marketing their produce in association with BAF. Such models have been functioning successfully in
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other parts of the country with the aid of the concerned State Government agencies and can be easily replicated in the areas around Siliguri and Jalpaiguri. For the first time, North Bengal has witnessed a Hub and Spoke model come up in Jalpaiguri district, which is similar to the models being successfully implemented in Meghalaya and Nagaland. A total of nine units for hitech Gerbera cultivation with Government assistance under the District Horticulture Officer of Mohitnagar has been initiated in Khairbari village near Haldibari in the year 2016. These farmers were traditional growers of tomato and potato, marketing of which depended totally on market forces and more often than not result in losses. They are now growing Gerbera cut flowers successfully in areas of cultivation ranging from 200 to 550 sqm greenhouses, with technology transfer from a Service Provider. The Service Provider is in contract with the farmers not only to provide technology and plant management skills but also to buy‐back the flowers. This model is the very first in this region and should be replicated in the neighbouring areas where there is a good market for flowers. The youth in these areas mostly indulge in petty works or squander time in simply loitering around without being engaged in any productive activity. Involving them in floriculture and making them taste sweet success of their efforts can help them to turn over a new leaf and at the same time glorify the image and contribution of these areas in terms of quality cut flower production of our State.
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Khairbari spoke farmers Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in Mohanpur, Nadia has successfully set up the following – (a) Commercial Horticulture Arena, Faculty of Horticulture, Mohanpur: This set‐up was aimed at giving a hands‐on experience to the students of the Horticulture Department and Research Scholars. It combines hi‐tech cultivation of vegetables and cut flowers, mist chamber for plant propagation and hi‐tech fruit‐seedling nursery. Such novel initiative by BCKV, gives an added advantage to the young students of the University who are planning to pursue their career in horticulture. Till recently, these experiences were unheard of in West Bengal in the public sector. (b) Model Centre on Floriculture Excellence, Mondouri: This floriculture centre is also under the Horticulture Department, BCKV. Here once again the University has set an example where hi‐tech cultivation of cut flowers along with Israeli Drip Irrigation Technology and Water Harvesting structures, grading and sorting rooms etc all stand under one roof – very similar to what can be witnessed in BAF. In fact, by selling the flowers from this centre, the University is not only earning valuable revenue but is also on its way to self‐sustenance. The basic aim
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of creating this Centre was to teach progressive farmers of nearby districts, the proper model of hi‐tech floriculture.
Model Centre on Floriculture Excellence, Mondori, BCKV, Nadia, West Bengal
Automated Irrigation System and GENAP water storage tank at Mondori.
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Thus, the initiative taken by BCKV to reach out to both students and farmers is praiseworthy. At Mohanpur it is the students and at Mondouri Farm it is the farmers who get to gain a first‐hand experience in commercial floriculture. The combination of the two is likely to go a long way in developing floriculture in the nearby districts. What remains to be seen is what steps the Government of West Bengal takes to encourage progressive farmers to accept and implement hi‐tech floriculture as a business model. The DHOs of the nearby districts have a vital role to play in this regard. Initiatives such as selecting progressive farmers, organizing farmer visits to these setups, interacting with the team of professors, students and workers involved in these projects, subsidizing the cost of infrastructure etc. are some of the responsibilities resting on the shoulder of the concerned DHO. There is optimism in the belief that the much talked‐about Hub and Spoke Model, which is being successfully implemented in the North‐East states of India, may be tested for success in the soils of West Bengal also and the Department of Horticulture, BCKV is all set to do so with its existing infrastructure. West Bengal is rich in floricultural resources that has not been adequately explored for the development and welfare of farmers. Nevertheless, the state is steadily progressing in the path of conserving these resources as also building upon them and energizing them with modern competitive technologies and then transferring the knowledge and technique to the entrepreneurs and growers to improve their livelihood security. Quality consideration compelled growers to opt for an alternate technology as against the traditional one and they naturally adopted hi‐tech farming. Overtime, hi‐tech floriculture technology has established itself as a promising commercial venture for the professionals and entrepreneurs in the state too.
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NOTES and REFERENCES : 1. Department of Horticulture, Govt of Meghalaya. 2. Office of the District Horticulture Officer, West Jaintia Hills, Department of Horticulture, Jowai. 3. Where a Service Provider ‘Builds’ the infrastructure in a designated government farm, ‘Operates’ the infrastructure or makes it functional and then ‘Transfers’ the same technology to the nearby spokes/farmers. 4. Annual Administrative Report 2014‐15, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland. 5. ibid. 6. ibid. 7. Sutanu Ghosal (2014, Sept 1) ET Bureau, The Economic Times. 8. Directorate of Floricultural Research, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, 2010. 9. Das Dr. Sanjit Kumar, “Commercial Prospects of Floriculture: A Study on Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal”, Vol. II, No. 2, 2012. 10. Ghosal opcit 11. Das opcit 12. Sayantan Bera, “Hopes in bloom”, The Statesman, April 7, 2013. 13. All facts have been collected by site visit of the researcher.
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Chapter VIII: Conclusion and Suggestions Floriculture can duly claim to be an excellent form of agricultural diversification where some or whole of a farm’s productive resources are reallocated into new activities. In a developing country like India such a welcome concept of diversification is applied both to individual farmers and to different regions, with government programmes being aimed at encouraging widespread promotion of floriculture. The magnitude of success in this field depends on the degree of responsiveness of farmers to the opportunities available and offered to them. The path to progress is smoothened by technological break‐through, favourable changes in demand of consumers and supportive government policies to reach the destination of effective generation of employment, attainment of self‐sufficiency and also earning of valuable foreign exchange. The modern mechanism of hi‐tech commercial cultivation of flowers is a powerful tool to achieve economic growth and development by making optimum use of local strengths and resources. Higher productivity through scientific methods of cultivation and better returns to the farmers, lead to higher per capita income on a national level, which depicts the quantitative improvement acquired through floriculture. Enhancement in income reflects on a better standard of living for the farmers and at the same time a decline in income inequality, poverty and unemployment i.e. an all‐ round qualitative improvement too, in the way of economic progress, which is synonymous to economic development. Farmers are thus much better off with brighter options open to them. In most areas of East and North‐East Himalayas, the scope of floriculture has not been explored optimally. A major cause behind this is the lack of awareness among farmers of the benefits that can be derived from commercial floriculture. An average farmer, with land, mainly depends on weather for his volume of produce. In the lean season, his land remains fallow and unproductive thus failing to provide a regular source of income. The Government can intervene here by providing suitable water harvesting measures. A ground‐breaking step forward is to introduce the farmer to ‘Service Providers’. They offer world‐class techniques of cultivation as per the local conditions and help the farmer to create an alternate source of livelihood. They also educate the farmers on the pros and cons of hi‐tech protected cultivation with profitable returns
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throughout the year without being dependent on the vagaries of nature and weather conditions. The introduction of drip irrigation system under hi‐tech cultivation is invaluable in modern times, especially in areas where water is scarce. With the increase in cost of power and fertilizers by the day, the importance of drip irrigation technology in commercial floriculture is immense as it not only reduces the recurring costs but also provides maximum nourishment to the plants at a very low cost with no wastage of power, water or fertilizers. Once education is imparted on these lines, the Government can select the genuinely interested farmers and disburse the inputs to the Service Providers to meet their needs. Care needs to be taken during this disbursement since the mere flow of inputs to non‐ interested farmers would fail to serve the purpose. It can be inferred here that educating the farmers by way of farmers’ training, farmer visits to model farming/floriculture centres etc and providing the cultivation facilities later seem to be more practical than spending on the project first and then trying to educate them later – as the second option may prove to be fruitless. Thus, the economic viability of this alternate mode of hi‐tech cultivation will attract more and more farmers to invest in floriculture to improve the economic status, both on a personal and the regional level, with no dependence on the Government. Floriculture can prove to be a farming practice where the entire family of the farmer can contribute positively, thereby reducing the financial insecurity of other family members and enhancing self‐ sufficiency. The age‐old practice of hunting for a job will no longer be resorted to, as floriculture will serve as an excellent mode of gainful self‐employment. The State Government can initiate Floriculture Hubs in district levels consisting of Model Floriculture Units, Collection Room, Grading and Sorting Room, Packaging Room, Cold Room with Refer Vans etc to facilitate the despatch and movement of perishable produce to various locations. Such Hubs are instrumental in not only generating employment at the local level, but also train the farmers on the techniques of post‐ harvest management. Once a particular group of farmers have learnt the farming techniques and post‐harvest management, they can form a co‐operative and deal with the Service Provider.
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With the various Central and State Government Schemes, farmers have been growing flowers with different levels of success. Such schemes, which are sponsored by the Government, provide the entire infrastructure to the interested farmers. Since they get everything ready on a platter before them, they suffer from a lack of enthusiasm to exert themselves to the fullest extent and so fail to make optimum use of what they are provided with. It may be suggested that if a part of the investment is borne by the farmer, they will automatically be more involved to ensure the success of their endeavour. Further, the farmer can be provided with the logistic support and marketing outlets in their locality or the nearest town where he can sell his produce. Alternatively, a Buy‐Back arrangement can be worked out with a Service Provider who gives a fair price on the condition that the quality of the product is maintained. In the long run, this safeguards them from suffering any kind of financial loss as there will be no hazard of over‐production or under‐production and the consequent fall or rise in price of their product due to lack of adequate demand or supply is neutralized by the Buy‐Back facility. Another strong back‐up to the farmer can be in the form of insuring his Infrastructure (Capital Inputs namely Greenhouse, Drip Irrigation Systems etc.) that acts as a safety net or at least compensates the loss in case of any natural calamity. When a Service Provider enters into a MOU with a group of farmers, he assumes the role of a reliable private participant who invests in technology and insurance cover for the farmers while the concerned Department remains the monitoring agency. This would be a win‐win situation for all three parties where the Farmer gets quality material and is assured of a buy‐back; the Service Provider is assured of a supply chain and forward linkages and the concerned Department remains a witness of such success stories. Farmers, at present, are totally dependent on the government schemes to sustain their cultivation. As far as the return on investment is concerned, the farmer is happy as long as the Government gives them their subsidies, planting materials, infrastructure etc. But once these subsidies stop, the farmer is in a dilemma regarding the next course of action. Therefore, it is best suggested that whatever subsidy is given by the State agencies to the farmer, be ‘Back Aided’ where the Government transfers the amount of the subsidy to the farmer’s bank account after completion and inspection of the project by the Department and Bank officials along with the farmer and then the subsidy is
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usually adjusted with the loan taken by the farmer from the bank to avail this subsidy. Alternatively, it should be disbursed in a phased out manner, covering at least two years, so that at the end of such a period, the farmer has enough capital from the sale of his flowers to continue his project and in future even seek his own bank‐finances to expand his business. Hence, the suggested course of action to ensure continuity and persistence of the farmer in this field, would be :‐ 1. To develop a network that brings about self‐sufficiency of the farmer. 2. To establish a proper mode of cultivation with the efficient use of Greenhouse Technology, Irrigation facilities, Fertilizers, Pesticides, Quality Planting Material etc. 3. To bring down the cost of cultivation in order to give the maximum benefit to the farmer ‐ This can be achieved by teaching the farmer the effective use of the above‐mentioned inputs, upgrade the knowledge of the farmer with the latest development in his field of cultivation, facilitate his learning process by visits to similar farms nearby and most importantly give him ‘Hands On’ training in what he is about to venture in. 4. To ensure the greatest satisfaction to the farmer in terms of the Sale of his Produce ‐ It is guaranteed that if the farmer follows the above procedures sincerely, there will be no problem in selling his produce to the Service Provider at a fair price. Thereafter, the farmer can save his returns and reinvest in his cultivation – much to his joy and satisfaction. The Service Providers have a significant role to play in the success and prosperity of the farmers. The uncertainties that crop up in the minds of the farmers after the grants/subsidies from the State/Central Government schemes stop, can be wiped out by the Service Provider. Since the farmers by now have tasted the success from hi‐tech cultivation, they would be tempted to expand despite the fact that no further grants are available. The Service Provider can now step in to assist the farmer in preparing ‘Bankable Schemes’ for seeking loans from banks and financial institutions. With their experience in marketing, they can enter into a ‘Buy‐Back’ with the concerned farmer so that it would be easy for the Banks to give, as well as the farmers to get the loans.
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No market, whether in India or overseas, is consistent to any crop as tastes and preferences of consumers vary overtime. Therefore, new varieties need to be introduced from time to time. The dull season also leads to fluctuations in prices of flowers. This fall in price can be suitably compensated by cultivating a substitute crop, namely exotic vegetables, to keep the farmer happy. A complete Post Harvest Infrastructure can be set up to facilitate the sale of the produce to other corners of India and abroad, as well. In today’s era of Information and Communication Technology, farmers armed with android handsets are better equipped in their hour of need to arrive at a quick solution when faced with any problem. Moreover, since the world today is dominated by advertisement and publicity, it is imperative to rope in more farmers and entrepreneurs by making them aware of integrated projects of floriculture that are adopted and the rate of success achieved under such magnificent endeavours, so that they are effectively motivated. Farmers need to be given the opportunity to get a firsthand knowledge and experience of hi‐tech cultivation by participating in Study Tours to nearby regions where facilities of protected cultivation, preferably with drip irrigation systems and water harvesting technology, are available. Visits to such ‘Demonstration Centres’ enables them to learn various cultivation methods using cost effective measures that they can implement later in association with their local governments. The e‐commerce module should be suitably used for advertisement and sale of produce. To develop a world‐class cold chain infrastructure, government and industry bodies need to work in collaboration to encourage the adoption of better and more efficient refrigeration technologies that can prolong the shelf life of food products and bring commensurate economic returns to the farmers. India, and more importantly these regions of Eastern and North‐Eastern Himalayas, needs a more effective, efficient and well‐thought‐out cold storage infrastructure. Financial institutions should play a major role to encourage the investment in cold chain industry in terms of term loan sanctioning, nominal interest rates and disbursement. Their support is essential for desirable growth. The state government must make a step
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towards subsidizing the electrical tariffs, encouraging use of renewable energies etc. in order to boost the development of cold chain infrastructure in India. The State Governments in Northeast India are boosting floriculture by inviting the best available Service Providers in the region who are, in turn, launching models like Hub and Spoke or Public‐Private‐Partnership (PPP). However, challenges faced in terms of infrastructure‐building, logistic support, transport and communication, cold chain etc need to be resolved. To highlight the case of commercial floriculture in Meghalaya and Nagaland, it is evident that they have successfully applied the above‐mentioned models in the local communities where the chosen cluster farmers have exhibited remarkable improvements in their standard of living after pursuing hi‐tech floriculture, with or without practising traditional agriculture side by side. Considering the case of West Bengal and comparing the advancement made by some other states of India like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh etc. during the last one decade or so, West Bengal has a long way to go. Bringing more area under floriculture is not the solution. Instead, the aim should be to get more economic return per unit area of land by producing quality plants and flowers and consequent value addition. The state has been blessed with abundance of rainfall, fertile soil and favourable climate for open field cultivation of flowers. Districts of Nadia and Medinipur have long been considered the heart of floriculture in West Bengal with the hills of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Mirik growing exotic cut flowers. The above‐mentioned models of Hub and Spoke and PPP are practically non‐existent in West Bengal. Even though, air‐rail‐road connectivity is very good, the lack of proper marketing facilities to flower‐growers leads to most of them incurring heavy losses and being subjected to exploitation by middlemen. Undeterred by various limitations, some innovative and progressive farmers have dared to explore new possibilities by diversifying into hi‐tech floriculture in a small way, particularly in North Bengal. It is only recently that the Department of Horticulture, Government of West Bengal has realized the importance of such models applied by these progressive farmers, who are ready to widen their horizons. Hence, the Department is keen on replicating the success evolving from such
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profitable diversification in other similar regions of the State with the help of a model that would be a prototype of the Hub and Spoke model. With the demand for cut flowers increasing enormously with time, the importance of the floriculture sector has also appreciated monumentally. The present study delves into the constraints encountered in selected regions of East and Northeast Himalayas that are halting the progress of floriculture in these regions, ways to overcome the challenges faced and successfully penetrate the untapped potential of commercial floriculture in these areas. It also intends to provide a broader spectrum on the opportunities available to an investor in floriculture to cultivate cut flowers and market them profitably. Particularly, in rural areas burdened by pressure of population on land and consequent unemployment, the adoption of agricultural diversification in the form of commercial cultivation of flowers as a main‐stream occupation can alleviate the miseries of the rural poor. The unique ‘Hub and Spoke’ model demonstrated at the Horti Hubs in West Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur in Nagaland, have established commercial floriculture as an attractive alternate source of livelihood in the respective localities. It not only improves earning capacity but also ensures better living and self‐ sufficiency of the selected farmers of the villages in the vicinity of the Hub. The success achieved from even a small area of protected cultivation of cut flowers that yield handsome returns, has constantly lured new entrants and encouraged more and more farmers in the surrounding villages of the Hub to shift from traditional cultivation to commercial floriculture or at times practise both simultaneously. Thus, widespread application of such models in other regions of the East and Northeast Himalayas as well as other parts of the country can work wonders. An approach to promotion and development of commercial floriculture with discipline and focus, diligence and sincerity will be synonymous to attainment of socio‐economic welfare and prosperity.
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33. Kapoor Srikant, Prasad B.V.S., Commercial Floriculture – Global and Indian Dynamics, Publisher: ICFAI. 34. Kolavalli, S., Atheeq, L., & Xavier, J., Floriculture industry in India: Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., 1991. 35. Malhotra Suresh K and Ram Lallan (ed) : Advances in Floriculture and Landscape Gardening, Central Institute of Horticulture, Medziphema, Dimapur, Nagaland, India, 2017. 36. Mandal M.A.S., Dutta S.C., Crop Diversification, The University Press Limited, 1995. 37. Mandal S., Technology Gap in Floriculture, Publisher: Agrotech Books, 2009. 38. Narasaiah M. Lakshmi, Approaches to Rural Development, Discovery Publishing House, 2003. 39. NIIR Board, Cultivation of Fruits, Vegetables and Flowers, National Institute of Industrial Research, 2005. 40. Parthasarathy V. A., Biotechnology of Horticultural Crops, New India Publishing Agency, 2001. 41. Patterns in Indian Agricultural Development: A District Level Study, Institute for Studies in Industrial Development, New Delhi, 1989. 42. Prasad S., Kumar U., Commercial Floriculture, Agrobiosindia, 2003. 43. Randhava G.S, Mukhopadhyay A, Floriculture in India, Allied Publishers, 2010. 44. Rathakrishnan R.T., Advances and Challenges in Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, New India Publishing Agency, 2009. 45. Ravinath D., Floriculture: A Viable Business, Excel Books, New Delhi, 2007. 46. Sarkar, Rahim, Misra, Floriculture in West Bengal: Problems and Potentials, New Academic, 1997. 47. Sarvanan R., Agricultural Extension: Worldwide Innovations, New India Publishing Agency, 2008. 48. Sen A. and J. Dreze, Indian Economic Development and Social Opportunity, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1995. 49. Sengupta Debashish, Rajkamal, Flower marketing In India, Excel Books.
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REPORTS 1. “Agricultural Diversification and Internal Competitiveness”, Report of the APO Study Meeting, Edited by Dr. Mubarik Ali, Published by the Asian Productivity Organisation, Tokyo, Japan, May2001. 2. “Floriculture – A Sector Study”, EXIM Bank: Research Brief, November 2009. 3. “Indian Floriculture Industry – the way forward”, Floriculture Today, Sumana Sarkar, Chief Manager, Export‐Import Bank of India. 4. “Livelihood Strategies and Community Development Projects” by Sidsel, Katrine, Runaog Lykke, 2011. 5. “Production Technology of Ornamental Crops and Landscape Gardening” by Dr. B. Hemla Naik, University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shimoga, 2013‐ 14. 6. “Scripta Horticulture 2 – Sustainable International Networks in the Flower Industry”, Published by International Society for Horticultural Science, 2005. 7. “The Economics of Production and Marketing of Greenhouse Crops in Alberta” by G. Nabi Chaudhary, Economics Branch, Economics and Competitiveness Division, Alberta Agricultural and Rural Development, September 2011. 8. ”Impact of Institutions on the Performance of the Flower Industry in Developing Countries” by Jo H. M. Wijnands, Jos Bijman and Ruud B.M. Huirne, Netherlands. 9. Employment & Poverty Reduction in India – Policy Perspectives based on recent ILO Studies. 10. Indian Floriculture Market Report and Forecast: 2012‐2017. 11. Interview between Sanjay Jog and the Union Agricultural minister Shri Sharad Pawar in March 2006. 12. Market Research Report on Cold Chain Logistics in India (Cold Storage and Reefers) Present Scenario, Future Prospects, Market Potential, Opportunities, Growth Drivers, Industry Size, Analysis & Forecasts Upto 2017, NIIR Project Consultancy Services, 2014. 13. Report of the APO Seminar on Strategies for Development of Commercial Floriculture held in New Delhi in May, 2000.
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14. Report on the Conditions of Work and Promotion of Livelihoods in the Unorganized Sector, Delhi, NCEUS, 2007. 15. Research Report: “Floriculture in Karnataka: Performance, Problems and Prospects” by P Thippaiah under Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Unit of the Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore, 2005. 16. SFAC Annual Report, 2010‐11. 17. Summary Report. The International Conference on Commercial Floriculture. Bangalore, Abraham, V. (2002). 18. The Steering Committee of Agriculture and Allied Sectors for the Tenth 5 year plan constituted by the planning commission. 19. Working Group on ‘Agricultural Development in east and north east India’ for the formulation of the Tenth 5 year Plan(2002‐07)
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10. Sachdeva Gulshan, “India’s North East: Rejuvenating a Conflict Driven Economy” Manipur Online, Feb. 06, 2006. 11. Satish Kumar, “Floriculture business – a boon in Nagaland”, ANI, October 19,2009. 12. Sayantan Bera, “Hopes in bloom”, The Statesman, April 7, 2013.
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17. Jha Brajesh, Kumar Nitesh, Mohanty Biswajit, “Pattern of Agricultural Diversification in India”, Working Paper Series No. E/302/2009. 18. Joshi P.K., Gulati Ashok, Birthal Pratap S., Tewari Laxmi, “Agricultural Diversification in South Asia: Patterns, Determinants and Policy Implications”, MSSD Discussion Paper No. 57, February 2003. 19. Kalavalli, “Floriculture Industry in India”, Agricultural Situation in India, 1992. 20. Khan Nazia Ansar, “Thrust on developing floriculture as a source of export earning”, Financial Express, February 27, 2012. 21. Kim Jae Hong,” Linking Land Use Planning and Regulation to Economic Development: A Literature Review”, Journal of Planning Literature, February, 2011. 22. Koranne V.M., Naik N.B., “Floriculture‐ An Economically Viable Enterprise”, I.J.A.E. Volume 52, July‐September, 1997. 23. Limbu Festus, “Agriculture and Rural Development in Tanzania”, ESRF Discussion Paper No. 007, November 1995. 24. Mathur Professor Rossy and Pachpande Dr. Priti, “Floriculture – Prospects and Opportunities”, ASM’s International E‐Journal of Ongoing Research in Management and IT. 25. Modak A., Mitra A., Das T.K., “Emerging Scenario of flower trade in the world vis‐a‐vis India”, Economic Affairs, Volume 42, October‐December, 1997. 26. Mukherjee Sanchita, “Crop Diversification and risk: an empirical analysis of Indian states”, Centre for Development Studies, India, March 2010. MPRA Paper No. 35947, January 14, 2012. 27. Ninama A.P., Sipai S.A., Khadayata K.G., Patel P.C., “Floriculture in India: Problems and prospects”, online published on 9 December, 2016. 28. Pal Swadesh, Kar Shyamal,” Implications of the Methods of Agricultural Diversification in Reference with Malda District: Drawback and Rationale”, Research Article, 2012. 29. Raghva SPS, “Floriculture – A viable diversification option in agri‐business”, Indian Horticulture, January‐March, 2001.
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30. Rahi Kazi M.B., Sarkar D., “Techno: organizational characteristics of Floriculture in West Bengal”, I.J.A.E. Volume 52, July‐September, 1997. 31. Rao R., “Promoting Floriculture”, Yojana, October 31, 1994. 32. Reddy T.V., Misra R.L., and Janakiraman T., “Indian Floriculture in the New Millennium”, Indian Society of Ornamental Horticulture, Papers presented at the National Symposium on Floriculture in the New Millennium, held at Bangalore during 25‐26 February, 2002. 33. Roy R.K., “Floricultural Boom in India”, Chronic Horticulturae, 2008. 34. Ruma Bhattacharya “Cut Flower Production: A Source of Incremental Income for
the Marginal Farmers of the State of West Bengal in India” International Journal of Social, Behavioral, Educational, Economic, Business and Industrial Engineering Vol:7, No:6, 2013 35. Sahu Ananya, Chatterjee Soumendu, Paul Ashis Kumar, “Growth of Floriculture and its Role in Promoting Socio‐Economic Status of Floriculturists of Panskura and Kolaghat Blocks, Purba Medinipur”, Indian Journal of Geography and Environment, 2011. 36. Sarkar Debnarayan and Chakravorty Sanjukta, ‘Flower farming and flower marketing in West Bengal: a study of efficiency and sustainability’, Published in Labour and Development, Vol 2, 2005. 37. Schumacher, Sara K., Marsh, Thomas. L., “Economies of Scale in the Floriculture Industry”, Journal of Agricultural & Applied Economic, Dec. 01, 2003. 38. Shelke Abhijit, “Commercial Floriculture Industry in India: Status and Prospectus”, International Journal of Management and Information Technology, 2010. 39. Sindhu S.S., Misra R.L., “Problems and Prospects of Flowers in India”, Indian Horticulture, July‐September, 1997. 40. Singh Aradhana, “Diversification in Agriculture”, www.eoearth.org, November 18, 2009. 41. Singh B., “Floriculture: an emerging industry in India”, Indian Horticulture, July‐ September, 1997.
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QUESTIONNAIRE (For Farmers) Date : District : Block : Name of the Farmer : Age : Gender:
1. How many Family Members? ◦2 ◦3 ◦4 ◦5 ◦>5 2. How many Children? ◦None ◦1 ◦2 ◦3 ◦>3 3. Which crop selected for Hi‐Tech Cultivation? ◦ Gerbera ◦ Carnation ◦ Anthurium ◦ Dendrobium 4. If involved in other agricultural practices/crops? ◦Yes ◦No 5. What was the main source of living earlier? ◦Traditional Farming ◦Hi‐Tech Farming 6. How much was the income then? ◦ Less than 20,000 ◦ More than 20,000 7. For how many months in a year were you engaged in that activity? ◦ 3 Months ◦ 6 Months ◦ More than 6 Months 8. How was the produce marketed then? ◦ Self ◦ Service Provider 9. What percentage of income then was spent on basic amenities and how much on health and education? ◦20‐30% ◦30‐40% ◦50% or above 10. How long have you been involved in Floriculture? ◦ Less than 2 Years ◦ More than 2 Years 11. How much is the added income in the present activity?
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◦ Less than 20,000 ◦ More than 20,000 12. How much time in a day is devoted to it? ◦ Less than 2 Hours ◦ More than 2 Hours 13. What is the area in Square Meter covered under protected cultivation? ◦ 96 SqM ◦ 200 SqM ◦ 500 SqM ◦ 1000 SqM 14. What is the cost incurred on plants, fertilizers, pesticides etc.? 15. Whether labour applied is by self, hired or by family members? ◦Self ◦Family ◦ Hired 16. How many stems are harvested per month? 17. How is the new produce marketed? ◦ Self ◦ Service Provider 18. Is it easier to market the new produce than the previous one? ◦Yes ◦No 19. Has Floriculture improved your quality of life? If so, how? ◦Yes ◦No 20. Are your children going to school now? ◦Yes ◦No 21. Have you added new livestock? ◦Yes ◦No 22. Have you renovated your house or built a new one? ◦Yes ◦No 23. Have you thought of expanding floriculture activity in future? ◦Yes ◦No 24. Are you happy with the Governments initiative to spread floriculture? ◦Yes ◦No 25. Have you opened a Bank account? ◦Yes ◦No 26. If no Government aid is available in future, will you seek Bank loans to continue with floriculture or expand it further? ◦Yes ◦No 27. Are you satisfied with the Service Provider?
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◦Yes ◦No 28. Is the Service Provider making regular and timely payments? ◦Yes ◦Mostly ◦No 29. What other benefits are you getting from the Service Provider? ◦ Technical Knowhow ◦ Marketing Benefit ◦ Regular Monitoring ◦ Financial Help 30. Are you encountering any difficulties in your current occupation? ◦Yes ◦A few ◦No 31. Would you recommend the practice of floriculture to other farmers who are not yet engaged in it? ◦Yes ◦No 32.Do you want to make any additional remarks?
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