Pooppoli, a flower show and agri-fest being organised by Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) in association with the International Society for Horticultural Sciences (ISHS), at its Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS) at Ambalavayal, concluded on Thursday.
The spectacle, showcasing imported flower plants besides orchids and ornamental plants brought from Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, attracted more than 12 lakh people till February 1.
“The exhibition showcased modern technologies in floriculture and horticulture, facilitating knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs, scientists, and international experts. The 14-day programme brought to light the enormous potential of floriculture and horticulture in Wayanad, which, if properly tapped, can change the fortunes of Wayanad farmers,” says P. Rajendran, Vice Chancellor, KAU.
“Even if measured at the lowest scale, seeds and planting materials sold during the show could turn into horticultural production worth Rs.1 crore, which in turn could sustain the rich agricultural tradition of the district,” says Dr. Rajendran.
The new agricultural college and allied facilities to be launched next academic year at Ambalavayal would spread awareness of scientific farming and importance of evolving farming technologies. Moreover, students from traditional farming communities would be exposed to this stream of study, which would help the traditional agricultural stronghold to explore all avenues for a sustainable agri-based economy, he says.
Rajendran Pangath, Associate Director of Research, RARS, says the total revenue form Pooppoli-2016 was expected to touch Rs.1.2 crore. The total revenue from the programme last year was Rs.83 lakh.
“The flowers and ornamental plants brought from other States and imported from other countries would be retained and multiplied to disburse them among farmers and horticulture enthusiasts here,” Dr. Rajendran says.
