The climate change phenomenon is a challenge also for scientists and researchers involved in horticulture. One needs to remain aware and make required preparation to prevent the detrimental impact of such climatic factors on horticulture production. The Uttarakhand Governor Krishan Kant Paul said this at the conclusion of the two-day Vasantotsav-2016 at the Raj Bhawan on Sunday.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Paul said that Uttarakhand has scope for establishing itself in the horticulture sector with environmental conditions here being conducive for the cultivation of all types of flowers. The subsidy system of the State Government will boost efforts aimed at achieving balanced economic progress even in remote areas. He expressed appreciation for the various activities which had been held in various categories during the two-day annual Vasantotsav flower exhibition-cum-competition.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Harish Rawat said that the annual exhibition was not simply an official formality now but an attempt to link developmental aspects under the direction of the office of the governor. Serious effort is being made to increase the 1,400 hectare area presently under horticulture to 2,500 hectare.
The farmers are being provided 80 per cent to 90 per cent subsidy by the Government. Appreciating the efforts of the horticulture department for organising the exhibition cum competition at Raj Bhawan, the CM requested the Governor that considering the enthusiastic public response the duration of this event should be increased to at least three days from the next year.
According to the department, the ONGC got the running trophy securing highest points in the competition. Awards were presented to a total of 128 individuals including 39 non-conventional flower cultivators for securing positions in the competitions held under various categories in the floral event. Twenty-seven farmers selected by the district horticulture officers from nine mountainous districts were also felicitated on the occasion.