Himachal to participate in International Horti Fair-2006

Shimla, Oct 30 (UNI) The Himachal Pradesh will actively participate in the International Horti-Fair 2006, sponsored by APEDA at Rai, Amsterdam, from October 31ST to November 3rd.

A spokesman of the state Horticulture Department said here today the Horti Fair was one of the most prestigious global show, focussing on floriculture technology and services from across the world and would provide the Indian growers with the better marketing opportunities.

He said that Shri Singhi Ram, Horticulture Minister along with a delegation of government officials and fruit growers would visit the fair to acquaint them with the latest production and post-harvest management techniques.

The Horti-fair would also provide them a plateform to interact with the exhibitors from all over the world and increase awareness about the potential and possibilities of production and export of fresh cut flowers in the country and abroad.

The fair shall also provide an opportunity to interact with the manufacturers, growers, breeders, dealers, packers, wholesalers, importers, exporters and distributors of almost every type of products being utilized in the florticulture industry.

The spokesman further said that the floriculture has been the major thrust area for diversification of horticulture industry in Himachal and during the recent years, the area under commercial floriculture has steadily increased from 30 hect. in 1993-94 to 466.98 hect, in 2005-06.

The estimated gross value of floriculture produce of the state during the year 2005-06 was Rs 1663.06 lakh, he added.

He said that the floriculture produce from Himachal was being sold in domestic markets and there was a lot of potential for export of floriculture produce as well.

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