PAKYONG, (IPR): The second day of the four-day Indian Orchid Festival 2025
continued at ICAR-NRCO, Pakyong, with key events focused on mainstreaming
orchid cultivation, strengthening legal awareness on plant variety protection,
and facilitating industry collaboration.
The
event, organised by ICAR-National Research Centre for Orchids, is being held
under the theme ‘Orchids for Beauty and Prosperity’.
Dr
Trilochan Mahapatra, chairperson, Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers'
Rights Authority (PPV & FRA), Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture
and Farmers Welfare congratulated ICAR-NRCO on the event and its contributions
to orchid research, conservation, and promotion. He highlighted on the
variations and diversity of orchids in the Northeast region and their medicinal
value. Further, he delivered a speech on the PPV & FRA Act, emphasising the
importance of legal frameworks in safeguarding the interests of orchid growers.
Likewise,
Dr DK Agarwal, registrar general, PPV and FRA, Government of India, Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare urged farmers to register their plant varieties
to secure their rights and benefits under PPV & FRA Act.
Dr
KV Prasad, director ICAR-DFR, Pune, highlighted the
prospects and commercial potential of orchids in floriculture and discussed
orchid types.
Further,
Prof. Sushil K Kothari, dean, Neotia University, highlighted the business
potential of orchids, citing their long shelf life and viability in
floriculture. He added that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
ICAR-NRCO would provide students with practical exposure and research
opportunities.
As
part of the programme, a MoU was signed with various public and private
organisations. Also, a ceremonial release of ICAR-NRCO-developed orchid
hybrids, publications, and value-added products was held during the event.
Additionally, orchid plants were distributed to selected farmers from different
wards for planting.
Earlier,
the dignitaries toured the exhibition, exploring various displays, interacting
with participants, and observing the showcased products.
The
event had the presence of Dr SP Das, director, ICAR-NRCO, Sikkim along with
dignitaries from various institutions, scientists, students and farmers.
