Mizoram’s anthurium export inspires Northeast floriculture sector

Aizawl: Last month, Mizoram’s anthurium flowers were exported to Singapore, a success that has brought new hopes in the Northeast region in the floriculture sector. The demand for fresh flowers has been surging; therefore, traders have decided to procure flowers from outside, mainly from Kolkata and its neighbouring cities. However, direct air connectivity between Northeast airports and Southeast Asia will open a new opportunity for local flower growers.

The recent export shipment was a healthy sign for the flower growers of the Northeast region. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), along with Mizoram’s Horticulture Department, has played a lead role in simplifying the export process.

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The climate of the Northeast is ideal for the cultivation of different varieties of flowers; despite this, farmers have to face several challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure and post-harvest losses, which hamper growth. To keep the flowers fresh for a long period, then advanced packaging, cold storage, and better transportation systems should be provided to farmers. The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) has been offering 50% financial help for cut flower cultivation, but farmers need guidance and awareness on how to get benefits from such a scheme.

To get bumper growth in the floriculture sector, it is essential to improve cold chain infrastructure, and farmers need training so that they can adopt modern techniques and grow more flowers. The recent export is a positive step for the floriculture farmers of the region. If their challenges are addressed, then they can grow top-quality flowers to meet the international demand.