The two-day annual flower show being organised by the Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC) and the Plant Lovers’ Association (PLA) with the support of Nalco and the Directorate of Horticulture, was inaugurated in the premises of the botanic garden of RPRC (Ekamrakanan) on Saturday here.
Forest and Environment Minister Bijayshree Routray while inaugurated the show also inaugurated a Modern Tissue Culture Laboratory in the premises of RPRC and dedicated the facility to the farmers of Odisha.
The State-of-the-art laboratory has an annual production capacity of 5 lakh banana and orchid plants through tissue culture.
Additional Chief Secretary, Forest and Environment Department Suresh Chandra Mahapatra and PCCF and Chief Executive, RPRC Rebecca Nayar and Director, Environment K Murugesan were present.
The Minister also inaugurated a water fountain for the visitors.
The Minister also visited the cut flower section, flower arrangements, floral displays, Bonsai, Rangoli, vegetable carving, plant bazaar, nurseries and exhibition stalls etc. He released eight books, booklets and brochures brought out by RPRC.
A total of 26 nurseries have exhibited ornamental plants for sale in 30 open spaces. This year, a “Bonsai” section has been introduced and more than 100 miniature plants are on display.
The Plant Lovers’ Association also organised a “Garden Competition” to encourage the residents for raising gardens and growing plants to add to the beauty of the city.
