Stage set for International Flower Show in Sikkim

Gangtok, Mar 13 (UNI) Twelve countries, seventeen states and over 58 groups from different parts of India will participate in a three-day International Florishow at Saramsa Garden near here starting from March 14.

Planning Commission deputy chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia will inaugurate the show at Saramsa Garden, about 14 km south of Gangtok.

''Sikkim is a happening place and the florishow is an example of such happening'', state Chief Minister Pawan Chamling told a news conference yesterday.

The theme of the flower show is Sikkim-Nature's own garden.

The flower show will project Sikkim in the international level, said Mr Chamling.

More than 300 growers will display their products in the fest, he said.

A special exhibit on Cymbidium orchids is also there at the florishow.

The Netherlands, Germany, France, Norway, China, Taiwan, New Zealand, Korea, Thailand, US, Sri Lanka and Nepal will take part in the flower show contest for the top prizes in different categories.

Altogether, Rs 41 lakh had been earmarked as the total prize amount, informed the Chief Minister.

The Postal department will be releasing a commemorative special cover on the occasion.

Mr Chamling said state level flower shows will be organized annually at Saramsa Garden. Northeast level show will be held every two years, national level show once in three years and the international level every five years at Saramsa Garden.

The seven-acre Saramsa Garden has been revamped artistically with natural settings and flowers for the event at a cost of Rs 19 crore.

Total Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity), world class and state of the art convention hall and exhibition stalls, open court, food courts, fountains with leisure shows, open air amphitheatre with a stage in natural settings and eco-friendly constructions and much more are on the offing at Saramsa Garden.

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