Srinagar, Mar 16 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called for making the Union Territory self-reliant in tulip bulb production, stressing the need to reduce recurring imports from the Netherlands and save foreign exchange.
During the inauguration of Asia’s largest tulip garden, speaking to reporters as per news agency JKNS, Chief Minister Omar directed the Floriculture Department to explore and scale up indigenous propagation methods.
“The Floriculture Department has been tasked with exploring ways to propagate tulip bulbs locally. We need to build our own capacity so that more planting material is produced within J&K. This will not only save foreign exchange in the long run but also strengthen the local economy,” CM Omar said.
Officials also briefed the Chief Minister about ongoing experiments aimed at improving the viability of local bulb production. At present, the garden, which showcases over 1.7 million tulips across 68 varieties, depends largely on costly annual imports from the Netherlands.
Sources indicated that a pilot project for local bulb propagation may be launched in the coming months, possibly in collaboration with agricultural universities and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
In a bid to further promote tourism, CM Omar directed the department to explore ways to extend the blooming period of tulips through scientific interventions such as staggered planting.
“We are examining ways to ensure the flowers last longer. Through staggered planting and scientific interventions, we want to give tourists a longer window to witness this spectacle,” he said.
Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on sustainable infrastructure upgrades at the garden, including the development of new terraces, redesigned flower beds and a souvenir shop. He also appreciated the gardeners for their efforts in maintaining the garden.
Responding to queries regarding tourist safety during the peak season, Omar assured that necessary arrangements are in place.
“The agencies responsible for safety will ensure appropriate protocols and maintain their presence wherever visitors travel,” he said.
The tulip garden, which reopened to the public on Monday, is expected to draw a large number of domestic and international tourists in the coming weeks, providing a boost to the Valley’s tourism and hospitality sectors. (JKNS)