Solan: The lawns of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni came alive with a riot of colours as over 160 varieties/ selections of Chrysanthemum were showcased during the Chrysanthemum Exhibition-cum-Flower Show. Organised by the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, the event attracted flower enthusiasts, farmers, students, and visitors, celebrating the beauty and commercial potential of this vibrant flower.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, who was the Chief Guest for the occasion. Prof. Chandel along with university scientists and staff admiring the stunning variety of Chrysanthemums on display, which included different colours, shapes, and sizes. Flower growers from across the state also participated, showcasing their entries and contributing to the diversity of the exhibition.
The event was not just an exhibition but also a platform to highlight the opportunities for Chrysanthemum cultivation in the state. In his address, Prof. Chandel commended the Department of Floriculture for its efforts to promote Chrysanthemum as a profitable commercial crop for farmers. He encouraged department scientists to continue working on developing new, promising flower varieties and to ensure that these selections reach farmers to help boost their income. In addition to the Chrysanthemum displays, the event featured creative landscape arrangements crafted by the university students, further showcasing their artistic talent and design skills.
Dr. S.R. Dhiman, Head of the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, informed attendees that the university maintains a germplasm collection of over 160 promising Chrysanthemum varieties, including university selections. The department has also been actively distributing planting material of these varieties to local farmers to encourage cultivation.
The exhibition attracted a diverse audience, including university students, schoolchildren from nearby schools, and local farmers, all of whom were captivated by the vibrant displays of flowers. To recognize excellence in the exhibition, Prof. Chandel presented prizes to the best entries by local farmers. This Chrysanthemum Day not only provided a visual feast for the attendees but also underscored the potential of floriculture in enhancing agricultural practices and livelihoods across the region.
