More than 10,000 expected to participate in State Agri-Horti Show 2014

GANGTOK, 16 Jan: More than 10,000 participants are expected in the State Agri-Horti Show 2014 to be held at Saramsa Garden on 18 and 19 January. The two-day state-level agricultural and horticultural show is scheduled to be inaugurated by the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling on 18 January at 10 AM.
This was informed during a press conference today at Krishi Bhawan conference hall, which was addressed by Food Security & Agriculture Development Principal Director-cum-Secretary, PT Bhutia and Horticulture and Cash Crop Development Principal Director-cum-Secretary, DK Rai and other officials.
It is informed that around 8000 progressive farmers along with Panchayats, researchers and scientists from different organizations, government officials, entrepreneurs, general public, traders and representatives from different companies associated with agriculture, seed and equipment dealers and tourists as well are expected to participate in the show.
It is further informed that the estimated budget for the show is around Rs 80 lakh to be pooled from the Centrally Sponsored Schemes [CSS] and other resources.
The main objective of the two-day event is to showcase the horticulture and agriculture potential and achievements of the state and to demonstrate new concepts and technology for adoption. The show also seeks to provide a platform for local farmers to exhibit their skills and excellence, to inculcate the spirit of peer competition for enhanced growth and to educate various stakeholders associated with agri-horticulture sectors.
The event will have a competition section for potted Cymbidium Orchids and other types of cut flowers and also in vegetables and fruits. The exhibition section will have various farm produce including organic foods and bamboo crafts, tools, farm machinery, modern types of farm equipments, new concepts and technology and etc. Conference sessions and awareness programmes will also be part of the event.
On the inaugural day, 10 progressive farmers will be felicitated by the organizing committee. It is informed that a total of Rs 11.43 lakh of prize money will be given away in the competition sections of the show. There are 119 stalls for different competition sections and 60 stalls for firms and companies of national level to display their products.
The valedictory function will have the Agriculture & Horticulture Minister as the chief guest, while area MLA, BB Rai will be the guest of honor on 19 January.