Srinagar, Aug 02: A training cum workshop titled “Exotic Orchids for Paradise on Earth” commenced at ICAR-CITH and SKUAST-Kashmir aiming to introduce Cymbidium orchids to the region. Scheduled from August 1st to 3rd, 2024, the workshop was conceived by Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir A. Ganie, and organized through the collaboration of the Division of Floriculture and Landscaping, ICAR-CITH, and ICAR-NRCO, Sikkim.
A total of 4,000 Cymbidium orchid plants have been procured for trials at CITH and SKUAST-K to evaluate their performance and commercial potential in Kashmir’s unique climatic conditions. During his interaction with scientists and trainees, Prof. Ganie expressed his satisfaction with the initiative and its potential to enhance Kashmir’s floral diversity.
The workshop’s inaugural session, held at CITH Rangreth, featured Chief Guest and Director General of Floriculture, Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, who lauded the efforts of CITH, NRCO, and SKUAST-K in introducing orchids to the valley. He assured full support from his department in promoting the commercial cultivation of orchids.
Director ICAR-NRCO, Dr. S.P. Das, provided insights into the cultivation practices and commercial value of orchids, while Director CITH, M.K. Verma, and Dr. I.T. Nazki, Professor and Head of the Division of Floriculture and Landscaping at SKUAST-K, outlined the roadmap for orchid cultivation in Kashmir, emphasizing the need for stakeholder cooperation.
At the valedictory function, Prof. Haroon Naik, Director of Research at SKUAST-K, highlighted the importance of standardizing cultural practices for orchids and providing adequate training to aspiring entrepreneurs before commercialization. The workshop saw participation from progressive flower growers and students, who received hands-on training in orchid cultivation and tissue culture techniques, expressing their satisfaction with the event.
