India's Floriculture Industry: Current Status and Potential
Despite being the world's second-largest producer of flowers, India has a minimal share in the global flower market, exporting only 19,678 tonnes valued at ₹717.83 crore ($86.63 million) in 2023-24, which is just 0.6% of international flower trade.
Export Opportunities and Challenges
- Underutilized Exports: Most exports consist of common flowers like roses and carnations. Potential is untapped for rare orchids and native flowers, as well as processed products such as dried flowers, decorative items, and perfumes.
- Natural Advantages: India's diverse climate allows year-round flower production, especially during winters when other regions face shortages. Cost-effective greenhouse cultivation is possible without extensive climate control.
- Strategic Location: Proximity to Europe and East Asia enhances export possibilities.
Economic Implications
The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights floriculture as a lucrative business, particularly for small farms, noting a shift towards export-focused cut flowers.
Constraints in Floriculture
- Material and Infrastructure Issues: Shortage of quality seeding material and inadequate post-harvest handling.
- Transportation Challenges: Lack of a modern cold chain, rudimentary packaging methods, and high freight rates hinder exports.
Growth Prospects and Government Initiatives
- Industry forecasts predict market growth from ₹29,200 crore to ₹74,400 crore by 2033 with an 11% CAGR.
- E-commerce Impact: Online flower marketing has boosted industry growth.
- The government and APEDA support exports with various schemes and incentives, including export subsidies.
- An expert committee suggests developing Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, and Hyderabad as floriculture hubs due to favorable climate and logistics.
Addressing these challenges is crucial for the sector's growth, though analysts remain optimistic about its potential.
