(a) whether clandestine import of inferior species of Orchids from Thailand, posing threat to nescent domestic orchid industry:
(b) whether such clandestine imports of orchids is facilitated by lax and inadequate Plant
Quarantine regulations in India: and
(c) if so, steps being taken to prevent such clandestine imports?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a) No, Sir.
(b) The ITC (HS) Classification of Exports and Imports lays down that import of Orchids into India will be
allowed on the basis of scientific Pest Risk Analysis and will have to be accompanied by, inter-alia, Phyto sanitary
Certification by the Plant Quarantine authorities of the country of origin.
(c) Officials posted at various Plant Quarantine Stations have been advised to maintain vigil to prevent the
illegal entry of orchids into the country.