27th Flora Expo Kicks Off in Kathmandu with Focus on Modernization and Employment

Kathmandu. The 27th Flora Expo, organized by the Floriculture Association Nepal, began today. The expo, held under the main theme 'Floriculture Business for Clean Environment, Employment, and Economic Prosperity,' will run until Chaitra 8 at the Bhrikutimandap Exhibition Hall, it has been stated.

Inaugurating the fair, Madhusudan Paudel, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development of the Bagmati Province, stated that the provincial government is always ready to support the floriculture business if further programs and policy suggestions are received to refine it. He said, "This is a competitive business. It needs to be made technology-driven. It is necessary to conserve old plants and promote new ones."

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, stated that the floriculture business is an important sector for employment and prosperity. Rajeshbhakta Shrestha, President of the Association, informed that floriculture is currently being practiced in approximately 270 hectares across 52 districts.

He stated that more than 53,500 people are employed directly and indirectly in the floriculture business. He complained that due to policy issues concerning flowers and floral products, floriculturists are unable to import necessary seeds and saplings on time.

According to him, approximately 60,000 visitors are expected during the expo period, with commercial transactions exceeding NPR 12 million. There are 65 stalls at the expo.

The expo features exhibition and sales stalls for seasonal flowers, ornamental plants that bloom and do not bloom, cut flowers, dried flowers, orchids, compost manure, flower bulbs, seeds, greenhouses, agricultural tools, equipment, packaging materials, drip irrigation technology, modern floriculture technology, organic pesticides, various types of pots, and flower decoration.

To develop, expand, and promote the floriculture business, the Floriculture Association Nepal has been continuously organizing regional and national flower fairs every year since 2051 BS.