Question : DEVELOPMENT OF FLORICULTURE

(a) whether there is huge potential for growth of floriculture industry in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise alongwith the quantum of financial assistance provided to various States, particularly Bihar to bring more area under flower cultivation;

(c) whether the Government proposes to set up Agri Export Zones for floriculture besides a large number of clusters under National Horticulture Mission; and

(d) if so, the details thereof indicating the number of zones proposed to be set up in various states, particularly in Bihar?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE(SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a): Yes, Sir.

(b): The Statewise details of area under floriculture in the country and the quantum of funds provided for the development of floriculture during 2007-08 through various schemes of Government is given in the enclosed statement. No funds have been released to Bihar during 2007-08.However, an amount of Rs. 460.11 lakh was released to Bihar during 2006-07 for covering 2321 hectares under floriculture.

(c)&(d): Government has set up six Agri Export Zones (AEZ) for floriculture in the States of Tamil Nadu,Karnataka,Maharashtra,Sikkim,and Uttarakhand.Presently there is no new proposal for setting up of AEZ for floriculture in any part of the country including Bihar.Under National Horticulture Mission floriculture is being promoted in various clusters of the country including 23 Districts of Bihar.