Indian orchid festival begins in Pakyong

PAKYONG, :The Indian Orchid Festival 2026, themed “Orchids for Beauty & Prosperity,” began today at ICAR National Research Centre for Orchids (ICAR-NRCO) in Pakyong.

The festival was inaugurated by minister Raju Basnet who also inspected the orchid show-cum-competition.

In his inaugural address, ICAR-NRCO directorDr. S.P. Dasexpressed his happiness over the participation of orchid growers and enthusiasts from across the country. He said the festival has grown into a grand event since last year and appreciated the support extended by the State Government, private stakeholders, and farmers.

“Our farmers are like magicians. They produce such beautiful flowers even in small sheds, which even highly developed countries sometimes cannot produce,” he said. Dr. Das also informed that the institute currently operates with 28 regular employees and six scientists.

Addressing the gathering, minister Raju Basnet appreciated the initiative taken by ICAR-NRCO in bringing flower growers together and organizing the event for the second time. He noted that many people are gradually moving away from farming and said such events could help revive interest in agriculture.

He urged the centre and research institutions to explore ways to promote mass cultivation of Cymbidium orchids, which could significantly benefit local farmers. “It has become a challenge for both the government and institutions like ICAR to bring people back to farming. We need to work collectively to encourage cultivation of flowers, organic fruits, and vegetables,” he said. The minister also expressed his delight at seeing the beautiful orchid displays set up by farmers.

Dr. Sujay Rakshit, director, ICAR-IIAB, Ranchi, who chaired the programme, appreciated the release of 38 new orchid hybrids developed by ICAR-NRCO,Pakyong over the last three years. He remarked that orchids have the potential to bring a revolution in the horticulture sector and acknowledged ICAR’s continuous efforts toward the welfare of farmers.

MLA Sudesh Kumar Subba, who is also an orchid enthusiast, highlighted that Sikkim is home to more than 500 varieties and over 5,000 species of orchids, making it an ideal region for orchid cultivation. He encouraged aspiring farmers to take up orchid farming and said the government would provide financial assistance through the Chief Minister’s funds. “Instead of only pursuing government jobs, people should also explore orchid farming, which has immense scope and benefits,” he said.

Dr. Sanjay Kumar, chairman of Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), congratulated the scientists and staff of ICAR-NRCO for their achievements in orchid research. He spoke about global orchid-producing countries such as Thailand, the Netherlands, Taiwan, Singapore and Ecuador, highlighting their exports and economic gains.

He noted that orchids offer immense possibilities for hybridization and innovative designs through genetics. “Although climate change is affecting orchid cultivation, modern technologies and artificial intelligence can help ensure healthy production. Skilled manpower is also essential,” he said. He also suggested organizing the festival at an international level in the future to attract flower enthusiasts from around the world.

On the first day of the festival, an MoU was signed between Smartogenic Plants Pvt. Ltd. and ICAR-NRCO Pakyong. Planting materials were also distributed to farmers by the Chief Guest.

The occasion also witnessed the ceremonial release of six orchid hybrids developed by ICAR-NRCO and four technical bulletins published by the institute.

A technical session on “Commercialization in India: Innovation in Cymbidium Breeding” was held in the afternoon.

Farmers from Sikkim, Mirik, Darjeeling, Sonada, Kalimpong, and Maharashtra showcased their orchid varieties and products at the festival.

Cymbidium orchid sold for Rs. 40,000

On the opening day of the festival, Aten Subba of Mirik in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, sold a Cymbidium orchid named “Queen of Heart” for Rs. 40,000.

The plant, which had two flowering spikes, is believed to be one of the highest-priced single-pot orchid sales in the hill region, possibly even in India.

Speaking about the sale, Aten Subba said the orchid is a four-year-old plant. “I could not believe it was sold for Rs. 40,000. In my 30-year career of Cymbidium orchid farming, this is a record sale,” he said, expressing his happiness.

The orchid is currently on display at the festival and will be handed over to the buyer at the end of the event.