l Floriculture Today January 2017
January 2017
Floriculture Today l
l Floriculture Today January 2017
January 2017
Floriculture Today l
Contents AWARDS
Silver Jubilee Celebrations of
INDIAN FLORICULTURE INDUSTRY & AWARD FUNCTION
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— Praveen Sharma
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Editorial Curtain-Raiser
10 Opportunities Galore at 12th International Flora Expo 2017 v FLOWER THERAPY 18 Flowers And Their Medicinal Uses — Ipsita Barik v
Event Report
22 Attracts Top International Buyers And Sellers v Urban Development 28 “Thousand Trees” Paris reinvents itself v Industry Perspective 31 ‘Innovation, and Not Imitation is the Way Forward’ — Mohd. Sameeuddin Ahmed, California Agriculture L.L.C.
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v Micro Greens 32 Indoor Beautification & Human Health Through Microgreens the miniature herbs of the future — Pradip Karmakar, Jaydeep Halder, A.B.Rai, and R.B.Yadava v Chemicals Industry 36 AVA Chemicals Extends Portfolio with Contract Manufacturing v Demonetisation 38 Demonetisation Impact Steep fall in flower sales across the country v Floral Compositions 40 Fiori Bertola Christmas Compositions with Porta Nova Red Naomi v 44 44 46
News Uae Students Successfully Implement Vertical Farming US (VT): Researchers Grow Saffron With Help From Iran Australia: Super Greenhouse Boosts Yield In Climate Extremes
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www.floriculturetoday.in
Chief Editor: S Jafar Naqvi Consulting Editor T.V. Satyanarayanan Sub-Editor Rummana Zaidi Chief Coordinator: M.B. Naqvi Editorial Coordinator: Syed M K
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January 2017 November 2016 l Floriculture Today December
Editorial T
he demand for flowers has plummeted because of cash crunch triggered by demonetisation. Despite the prices of flowers having come down by 50 to 80 per cent, vendors in the Mandis complain that the number of people buying flowers – not an essential item – has come down drastically. Being a highly perishable commodity, like some of the vegetables and fruits, flowers, no doubt, had to bear the brunt of the demonetisation impact. In Gazipur flower Mandi on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, a cut flower wholesaler Ravinder Advani said the demand was down by 50 per cent, even during the marriage season ending December 12, when usually demand peaks. After this period the sales have further come down to 30 per cent, compared to the pre-demonetisation period. Because of demand fall, fewer farmers producing flowers are coming to the market. Advani, owner of ‘Flower Power ’ shop in the Mandi, summed up the situation thus: Supply has dropped, customers are not many and, farmers are incurring big losses. Reports from Bangalore said that in K R Market, a flower marketing hub, the general complaint of vendors was that in the first two weeks after the demonetisation announcement, jasmine was being offered at Rs. 100 a kg, which is one fourth of the normal price, and still there were very few buyers. Roses in loose form, normally priced at Rs. 100 a kg, were being offered at Rs 20-30 a kg. Marigold hit the bottom from Rs 30 per kg to Rs 5-6 a kg. Some buyers came to the market not so much to buy flowers but to get change for high denomination currency. In Mumbai, instead of the usual hustle and bustle, the Phool Gali, in Dadar wore a deserted look. Customers were very few in number and even those making purchases for marriages had to operate on a low budget for flowers because of cash crunch. Business was only 20 per cent of what it was before November 8, said a wholesalers and retailers, who sell flowers, garlands, bouquets and floral decorations. In Chennai, where women love to decorate their hair with sweet-smelling flowers stringed together, vendors were reporting a sharp fall in demand. Muthumariappan of Venkateswara Flower Decorators, a flower retailer, whose main business is floral decorations for weddings and other social functions, said in the last one decade he has been in flower business, he hasn’t seen such hard times. ”Everything has changed and business has seen a drop of almost 75 per cent,” he said two weeks after the demonetisation exercise began. The situation in Kolkata is no better. “From a daily sale of Rs. 25,000, my sales have come down to just Rs. 5,000, ” said a flower shop owner in Salt Lake area. “I have switched to accepting cheques now.” In the national capital, while some businessmen have changed over to payment modes like PayTM, they feel the transition has not been as effective in terms of sales as expected. India produced over 2 million tonnes of loose flowers and over 8 million (numbers) cut flowers in 2015-16. India’s share in the world floriculture export trade is less than one per cent. The problems of floriculture trade are Floriculture Today expected to end soon once banks start normal wishes all its readers a very operations. If flower producers and trade can Happy New Year. be increasingly encouraged to switch over to digital transactions, it would be a step in the right direction for the growth of floriculture in India. Comments are welcome at: MediaTodayMails@gmail.com
Views expressed by individuals and contributors in the magazine are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Floriculture Today editorial board. Floriculture Today does not accept any responsibility of any direct, indirect or consequential damage caused to any party due to views expressed by any one or more persons in the trade. All disputes are to be referred to Delhi Jurisdiction only. .....Editor
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Curtain-Raiser
Opportunities Galore at 12th International Flora Expo 2017
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he 12th edition of the most important event of the Floriculture industry in India, International Flora Expo, is all set to add more colour to the blooming international floriculture trade. The event will be held in Pune from 24-26 February 2017. The event is now more than a decade old with substantial contribution to the floriculture industry. The 11th edition of International Flora Expo 2016 was extremely successful and received words of praise from one and all. 12th International Flora Expo will have three more concurrent events that complement each other and contribute to holistic development of this sector, namely 11th International Landscape and Gardening Expo 2017, 9th International Horti Expo
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2017 and 3rd Agrex India 2017. Through years of success and growing participation, the series of events have become India’s largest exhibition on floriculture, horticulture, garden equipment and machinery, and allied sectors. This year, the Indian greenhouse industry has also completed its 25 years. To celebrate this milestone, the expo will have a concurrent conference on Commercial Floriculture and Greenhouse Industry (CFGI India 2017). Why Pune? Maharashtra is a leading Indian state in commercial horticulture, floriculture and allied interests. It is the largest producer and exporter of many horticulture crops like grapes, pomegranates, mangoes,
bananas, oranges, etc. and the largest cut flowers and plant producing state of India. Greenhouse concept, an integral part of horticulture, was first introduced in India through Maharashtra. Since then, it has been home to major greenhouse manufacturers and accessories suppliers. Talegaon Floriculture Park, situated near Pune, is a unique example of cluster based approach of floriculture in India. Pune, our venue, has some of the biggest floriculture production centers, spread across 100 to 200 kilometers radius. It has become a major hub for international breeders and planting material suppliers and the ultra-modern tissue culture labs for horticulture and floriculture industry. In nursery and garden centers trade, it is a major producer of high quality ornamental
Curtain-Raiser
flowers, trees and pot plants; it also caters to the demand of emerging landscape and vertical gardening industry. It also enjoys a locational advantage of being close to Mumbai, where India’s biggest perishable cargo complex exists, enabling quick export of these products. Enjoying these advantages, Pune has been Media Today’s prime choice for organizing the 12th edition of Flora Expo 2017, 11th International Landscape & Gardening Expo, 9th International Horti Expo 2017, and 3rd Agrex India. INDIA - World’s 2nd Largest Market With over 300 million population of middle and higher income group against nearly 1.2 billion population, India is the world’s 2nd largest consumer base and fastest growing retail destination. The increasing per capita income is pushing people to lead a lavish life. Flower decoration in houses is gaining momentum with the changing of life style of the people in India. Thus flower consumption is growing at a whopping speed of 30% per annum. Numerous festivals have added to the demands of flowers and have made India a floral super power of the future. A huge domestic market supports and high quality export oriented flower production is providing a unique competitive edge. India, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan along with other countries of the region make South Asia, the world’s largest market and India is emerging as world’s fastest growing flower and gardening market. Blooming Floriculture Industry in India Flora Expo is considered very relevant in the present context since in recent years much emphasis has been given to diversification of agriculture. Conventional farming, based on monocropping, does not yield high profits to the farmers. Studies show that growing of horticulture crops, including flowers,
facilitates better returns per unit of area. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) has launched several schemes aimed at holistic growth and development of the horticulture sector, of which floriculture is an important segment. Floriculture has emerged as an extremely promising industry. India has a high demand for flowers in many forms, like garlands, flower-carpets, floral rains, and floral jewellery. Owing to this ever rising demand, floriculture in India has become an important commercial activity in agriculture. It is being viewed as a high growth industry. The liberalized economy has provided requisite encouragement to the Indian entrepreneurs for establishing export oriented floriculture units under controlled climatic conditions. In the last two decades, a number of floriculture units were established in India for producing and exporting flowers to the developed countries. India is poised to become the top flower trading center in this part of globe. Imports of flowers, seeds, bulbs, planting materials, greenhouse technologies and gardening related tools, accessories and equipment from all over the world are increasing every year because industry professionals in India are looking for new products, techniques and devices that are highly effective and cost-efficient for upgrading of knowledge and their business. Networking Opportunities with Professionals from All Over The Globe Last Flora Expo attracted professionals from over 16 countries around the world including leading ones from The Netherlands, Japan, UAE, USA, China, Taiwan, Thailand, including other South East Asian and African countries like Korea, Sri Lanka and Egypt. The Exposition has emerged as South Asia’s
premier meeting ground for various business dealings in the sector. The forthcoming International FLORA EXPO 2017 will be an ideal platform to expand business into new markets both in India and other South Asian Countries. For international exhibitors, 12th International Flora Expo 2017 is the gateway to realize the huge potential of South Asian market as a year-round supplier and consumer. International FLORA EXPO 2017 will bring you not only conventional flower and gardening industry professionals, but also mass buyers from large industry retailers such as home centers, supermarkets, departmental stores, interior designers, and interior shops. The buyers will come from every part of India as well as Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Persian Gulf & Arabian countries and other parts of the world. International FLORA EXPO series is the first and the only professional event in India for international suppliers to meet and trade with all importers, buyers, retailers, dealers, garden centers and florists at one place! From the Organisers “Flowers are unique things. A person can say no to chocolates but definitely not to flowers. They bring smile to every face and are meant for every occasion”, says S Jafar Naqvi, Chief Coordinator of International Flora Expo. Naqvi further adds, “Through Flora Expo and its concurrent events we aim to further strengthen the Indian floriculture market and increase the per capita consumption of flowers in India. Through the years we have brought together all the major stakeholders of the industry and its allied sectors. We are sure that the Event series will continuously increase its contribution to the floriculture industry”. For more details, visit: http://floraexpo.com/
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Awards
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followed the industry keenly and supported the cause. Project Consultants: Who contributed in setting up projects with Indian Technology
Tracing the growth of Indian floriculture industry, Sharma said, India’s first export-oriented Flower project was established in 1991 at Maval Taluka, Pune. It was in the year 200304 that a small forum called Indian Society of Floriculture Professionals was formed. This forum comprises of all the Floriculture Professionals who began their career journey right from the inception of this industry in India. The sole objective of this forum was to exchange knowledge, information, new findings, technological updates, products update, and market trends of the industry, among the professionals serving the ongoing projects in India and abroad. As is well known, for the Indian Floriculture Industry the initial years were very tough for survival. Out of almost 500 EOU’s registered, around 100 survived. In order to survive and succeed in Floriculture extraordinary efforts were needed. The promoters of the surviving projects put in hard work. “We worked hard; paid high prices for the foreign technology. The Floriculture Professionals, worked hand in hand day and night to overcome various
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Total flower exports from Kenya and Ethiopia have reached US$800 m plus, and out of these flowers, almost 70% is grown under the able management of Indian Managers bottlenecks faced by the nascent export oriented industry in the nineties. We worked to ensure the foreign technology was adapted to Indian conditions. A lot has happened in the last 25 years, there has been a tremendous growth of Flower Industry around the world,” Sharma said. Noting India’s “tremendous contribution” to global flower industry, Sharma pointed out that total flower exports from Kenya and Ethiopia have reached US$800 m plus, out of which almost 70% is grown under the able management of Indian Managers. The emergence of all these Indian Managers, who are doing wonders around
the world, can be traced back to India’s first generation projects. Therefore, Sharma said, “we have decided to acknowledge the great contributions made by all the first generation investors/promoters in this industry. We are here to let them know that their investment was great, it may not have generated great profits to them in financial terms, but they gave this industry a platform to step on. We the professionals are known more by our first project of association than the university we have passed from. The investment they made is still actively contributing to not just Indian Floriculture but Global Floriculture as a whole.” The first generation projects should be regarded as Institutes; each of the projects which survived the first five years of existence had a typical work culture, fighting spirit that clearly reflected on the professionals of respective projects. “We have reached a mile stone in Indian Floriculture. This is the time to look back and see who all have contributed to this industry and acknowledge them,” Sharma said. In view of this ISFP, has decided to acknowledge the contributions of various industry stalwarts by organizing an awards function on Feb, 24 in Pune. n
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Flower Therapy
Flowers and Their Medicinal Uses — Ipsita Barik
problems,very effective in cleansing the blood and lowering fevers. Blue Lobelia: treatment for syphilis as well as less severe ailments. Tea made with this flower helps to relieve fevers, coughs and colds, and digestive problems. Butterfly Weed: effective in treating respiratory and related lung issues, used for internal cleansing and pain relief, help to reduce swelling or heal wounds. Calendula: The bright yellow petals of calendula flowers are used on the skin to heal burns, cuts, and wounds. California Poppy: used to reduce anxiety and insomnia, as well as bladder problems in children and adult, also reduces depression and fatigue.
Gardenia: for blood cleansing and disorders, bladder problems, and physical injuries. It also works on a mental level in helping to alleviate depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia 20
Angelica Herb: Cures digestive disorders and coughs and colds. It can also be given as a strengthening tonic for seniors and children. Anthurium: cures arthritis and rheumatism, for muscle aches and cramps. Begonia: eliminate headaches and rid the body of toxins. The crushed flowers rubbed directly on the skin to help relieve pain and heal sores or burns. Bellis Perennis: acts as a laxative as well as an expectorant to purge the body of toxic matter. treat physical disorders such as arthritis and rheumatism and helps in healing wounds. Black Cohosh: stimulates the uterus. Women with menstrual problems can effectively use low doses of this flower to help regulate their cycles and relieve pain. In the same vein, pregnant women should avoid it since it can bring on a miscarriage or early labor. Blood Root: treat respiratory problems, applied on the skin to treat rashes, warts and various dermic
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Carnation: petals can be brewed to make an excellent tea to reduce anxiety, agitation, stress and fatigue. Moreover, it also has a healing effect on the skin and can bring down swelling. China aster: Used in Chinese medicine for hemorrhage, malaria, and pulmonary ailments. Also used for animal poisoning. Chrysanthemum: brings marked relief for those suffering from a fever, headache or common cold. The cooled liquid can also be applied as a compress to soothe tired eyes. Corn Flower: used to deliver relief to medical patients, acts as a laxative and also as a mouth cleanser. A paste made from corn flowers brings relief to acne and tired or irritated eyes. Crossandra: Antibacterial, Aphrodisiac, Bronchitis, Cough, Liver problems and Menstrual Disorders. Dahlia: The root is rich in the starch inulin. Whilst not absorbed by the body, this starch can be converted into fructose, a sweetening substance suitable for diabetics to use.
Flower Therapy Daisy:Blood cleansing, Stops bleeding, Diuretic, Spasm-breastfeeding, Analgesic, Coughs, Colds, Loss of appetite, Constipation, Intestinal inflammation, Gout, Rheumatism, Metabolism strengthening, Dropsy, Edemas, Kidney stones, Bladder stones, Menstrual complaints, Discharge, Skin diseases, Rashes, Impure skin, Wounds Dandelion: very effective for cleaning the blood and also helping with related issues, such as anaemia,also used as a laxative and a tonic of overall wellbeing. Dianthus: Treats Bladder Stones, Bladder Obstructions, Urinary Tract Infections. Foxglove: valuable in curing edema (previously known as dropsy). It is also used as a tea to remedy coughs and colds or as a compress for skin swellings or sores. Gardenia: for blood cleansing and disorders, bladder problems, and physical
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Orchids: anti-pyretic and analgesic, increase immunity, decrease the oxidant stress in aging and have anti-cancer activity injuries. It also works on a mental level in helping to alleviate depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia. Gerbera: for curing colds and treating rheumatism. Gladiolus: Diarrohea.
curing
constipation
and
Goldenrod: reduce pain and swelling (inflammation), as a diuretic to increase urine flow, and to stop muscle spasms, used for gout, joint pain (rheumatism), arthritis, as well as eczema ,also used to
treat tuberculosis infections , diabetes, enlargement of the liver, hemorrhoids, internal bleeding, hay fever, asthma, and an enlarged prostate. Hibiscus: relieve upset stomach, high blood pressure, cancer, bacterial infections, weight loss, and fevers. Honeysuckle: used to create an antibacterial gargle wash for sore throats. Skin rashes or inflammation are also effectively treated by applying a paste made from the flowers. Hyssop: renowned for its potency against sore throats, bronchitis, congested chests, rheumatism and arthritis. It can also be used to improve circulation of the blood. Jasmine: they aid in digestive issues, stomach ulcers and ulcers. Sipping this brew before bedtime can help to ward off insomnia and anxiety. Lilac: reduces fever and to get rid of
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Flower Therapy internal parasites. Skin burns or wounds are soothed and heal well when a paste or gel made from lilacs is applied. Lotus: effectiven against fever, diarrhea and also more serious illnesses such as cholera and bronchitis. A syrup made from the flower provides much relief for bad coughs. May Apple: May Apples are extremely potent (even toxic) and a small amount can be brewed as a tea or tonic to make a powerful laxative and can also bring on vomiting. Marigold: alternative analgesic, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, astringent, bactericide, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, stomachic, styptic, and tonic. Morning Glory: act as a laxative and general purge and also acts as an emmena gogue to bring on menstruation or labor. Nasturtium: acts as an effective remedy against colds and flu. It is also useful in treating infections of the lungs, bladder and reproductive organs. Orchids: anti-pyretic and analgesic, increase immunity, decrease the oxidant stress in aging and have anti-cancer activity. Pansy: treat skin ailments , soften tumors,
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Lotus: effectiven against fever, diarrhea and also more serious illnesses such as cholera and bronchitis. A syrup made from the flower provides much relief for bad coughs
strengthen contractions of the uterus and induce labor. treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, whooping could, and bronchitis,soothes inflammations and irritations in the mucus membranes of the throat ,cures rheumatism and arthritis, reduce Bladder infections, blood pressure and prevent heart failure. Passionflower: best suited for treating disorders such as insomnia, agitation, anxiety, and epilepsy. It also acts on the nerves to reduce pain and induce a calming sensation. Peony: flower is helpful as a muscle relaxant in cases such as general muscular pain and cramps and also menstrual discomfort. Phlox: treat stomach and intestinal problems, such as aches or indigestion.
Plum Flowers: free the body from parasites and ulcers,also used to boost digestive health. Rose: It contain a good deal of Vitamin C. The petals can be eaten raw to increase blood circulation, and they also relieve depression. Rose tea acts as a mild laxative. A paste or cream made from the petals does wonders to improve the condition of the skin, especially on the face. Rosy Periwinkle: given as a tea for diabetes and high blood pressure, also have beneficial properties towards diseases that include leukemia, cancer and Hodgkin’s Disease. Snapdragon: used as a gentle sedative and mental relaxant, also useful for insomnia or stress. Sunflower: Consuming a brew made from sunflowers helps greatly with ulcers and menstrual cramps. It can also be used as a wash for gargling in cases of sore throats. Tulip: Best remedy for Cough & Cold, Reduces risk of cancer, Used for sinus pain, hay fever and headache,Have diuretic properties, It has anti-septic properties. Zinnia: Cures Constipation,acts as an Astringent, Natural Healer n Author: Ipsita Barik, Research Scholar M.Sc. (Ag) Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Allahabad (U.P). (Email ID: ipsita.barik2011@gmail.com
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Event Report
Attracts top International buyers and sellers
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urasia’s largest annual gathering for the professional horticulture sectors was held for the 8th time in Istanbul from 24-27 November 2016. With 282 suppliers from 17 different countries exhibiting, the Flower Show Istanbul/Eurasia Plant Fair is by far the most important exhibition for the region’s rapidly expanding ornamental plants and landscaping market attracting top international buyers and sellers from around the world. This event is now recognized as much more than a meeting of two continents, it’s a meeting point for the global horticulture and floriculture industries! Hakan Yuksel, Chairman of CYF Fair Organisation, in an interview, underlined that they have been in a very fast growing industry for the last 10 years. He also emphasized that they will be organizing the fair next year at TUYAP. “The Eurasia Plant Fair today represents exactly the sector analysis, market research and business opportunity that Turkey houses”, Yuksel added. On display were a record number of plant varieties suitable for all weather conditions and soil types, the latest materials and innovative technologies for ornamental plant production along with
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landscaping equipment and horticulture services. It is no surprise that all available exhibition space was occupied at the venue. This comprehensive range of products and services were successfully promoted to professional horticulturists throughout Turkey, the Eurasian region, CIS, Balkans, Middle East and North Africa resulting in a record 11,257 visitors who came from 48 different countries to view, compare and place orders. Abdurrahman Baskan, Chairman, Baskan Group said, “Flower Show Istanbul is an important achievement for Turkey.
I consider Flower Show Istanbul is an important success in terms of the sector too. Also Istanbul is an important market for ornamental plants sector. Production is very high in the Aegean Region but Istanbul is of prime importance for the market. Corporate companies are also contributing to the sector as they attend the fair.” Osman Bagdatlioglu, President, Middle Anatolia Ornamental Plants and Products Exporters Association said, “Growing of the Flower Show is pleasing while many exhibitions shrink.
Event Report
This fair is so important for our sector. We need to continue to develop it and promote it further.” By delivering a unique insight into the ornamental plants and landscaping sector in Turkey and the region, this 8th edition of the Flower Show Istanbul/Eurasia Plant Fair proved again it is much more than just an exhibition. An interesting aspect at Eurasia Plant Fair was the active participation of the government bodies and the urban development agencies as well as private players. As this industry has a major role in the development of cities in Turkey, the government bodies shared their needs with the private sector. This approach should be adopted by India too. Exhibitors and visitors were able to benefit from this first-hand exchange of information and so plan with more confidence their future activities and investments. Exhibitors reported many enquiries from potential buyers, such as national and international construction and landscaping project companies, hotels and leisure facilities, wholesalers, retailing e.g. garden centers, estate management companies and from 102 different municipalities from Turkey alone. Faruk Kacir, General Manager,
On display were a record number of plant varieties suitable for all weather conditions and soil types, the latest materials and innovative technologies for ornamental plant production along with landscaping equipment and horticulture services Istanbul Agac ve Peyzaj A.S. said, “Extensive studies are planned on the renewal and maintenance of landscaping areas in Istanbul to increase green spaces. As sector leader, I can say that with the environmental investments in Istanbul, Istanbul has reached an environment conception that will be an example to all of Turkey and even the world cities. We are very pleased with the progress of the sector through new investments in ornamental plants and landscape sector.”
The event played host to a range of highly topical activities including flower arrangement shows, seminars on sector issues and bilateral meetings between Turkish and foreign producer unions. An increasingly important element in the success of the Eurasia Plant Fair is the high number of international buyers attending and in 2016 a record 577 visitors from 48 countries attended with the Middle East, Europe, and Turkey Republics particularly well represented. Exhibitors were not only able to meet the key buyers from Turkey’s emerging sector, but they made valuable business contracts in many other exciting markets. “We have a fair that represents Turkey. It is an event that has brought together the whole sector,” said Ahmet Dundar, Chairman of SUSBIR. Baris Isik, Chairman of the Board Director of Isik Peyzaj, while praising the fair said, “Our fair is getting better every year. When we look at Europe and Central Asia, we see IPM Essen as the first place, Chelsea Fair in London in the second place and Flower Show Istanbul in the third place.” As reported in several international industry trade magazines and publications, the excellent growth in Turkey’s plant and landscaping sector is driven by the growth in both the local
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Event Report
and regional market, making this event a must attend for international suppliers looking to boost their export sales. Selahattin Altun, Chairman of Kardelen Peyzaj stated that the participation in fair is very important as the companies can introduce themselves here. He stated that the products and booths are very nice. Altun advised all companies to come and get a sense of the fair to realize its importance and strength for the sector. He said that this fair should continue to increase with a momentum every year. There are immense possibilities for Indo-Turkish cooperation in the floriculture sector. India is importing
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from China, Thailand, and Vietnam; Turkey can prove to be a major source for specialized plants for India. As the Indian Media Partner of the event, through the medium of Floriculture Today, we sought to invite the stakeholders to come to India to explore the possibilities of JVs and other partnerships. We definitely feel that Indian stakeholders should participate in the next edition of Eurasia Plant Fair and an Indian delegation should visit the show to gain an insight of the floriculture sector in Turkey, the models followed, and the latest developments. Eurasia Plant Fair 2017 will take place
from 23-26 November next year and is already attracting a lot of support from both buyers and sellers! n
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“Thousand Trees” Paris reinvents itself
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city like Paris must be able to reinvent itself at every moment in order to meet the many challenges facing it. Particularly in terms of housing and everything relating to density, desegregation, energy and resilience. It is important in today’s world to find new collective ways of working that will give shape to the future metropolis. These are the words of Mrs. Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, when she launched two years ago an international competition for innovative urban projects for Paris. In the meantime many interesting projects hve been presented. The winners will be able to purchase or rent the terrains in order to carry out their projects while simultaneously conducting an urban experiment on an unparalleled scale. It is all about original projects, in order to reinvent new ways to live, work, interact and share in Paris. A total of 23 prestigious venues were selected. The project “Mille Arbres” (1000 trees) draw the special attention of Flormarket Global. This winning concept was created by: Sou Fujimoto Architects / Manal Rachdi, Oxo Architectos / Moz Paysage / Atelier Paul Arène / Pierre-Alexandre Risser Horticulture & Jardins.
v “Mille Arbres is opening the border that the ring road represents today, Mille Arbres, is a public promenade, a forest housing office and apartment buildings, a hotel, restaurants, a large center dedicated to children, a bus station, everything in a unique environment.” Philippe Journo, President of Compagnie Phalsbourg
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v “Mille Arbres is to me like a dream, a floating village in the middle of forest, in Paris. It is a new way to discover the city. At street level, we also have a forest in a public park where one can feel calm in a fresh atmosphere. This forest with its thousand trees creates a three-dimensional integration of nature and architecture.” Architect Sou Fujimoto
In a world increasingly prone to social and political polarization, inadequate management of natural resources and predatory development, it has been reassuring to pace around what this project proposes, it is just the right medicine to reconcile architecture with nature and society because it is located just above one of the most prominent urban scars that have historically divided Paris from its
Urban Development subirbs locating a whole villa right in the middle. The project includes offices, restaurants, apartment buildings, a hotel, a center for children, a bus station and everything you need to make this place a unique place surrounded by thousands of trees. It will be an oasis to imitate, a new way of living the city, immersed in the city, but at the same time surrounded by nature. To achieve this incredible effect, the architects have focused on two points: The abundance of trees and the human scale. To belittle the human scale thanks to the magnitude of the proposal, a micro-world serves peaceful as a transition joining Paris and Neuilly above the highway, a place where you can unwind from the pressure of the city and reconnect. This place is created with nature. This from the human psychological, but also from the ecological point of view is the best possible project to implant in such a place. The large, imposing presence of a forest within the city creates a natural ecological corridor for the movement of insects, birds and small mammals that can now flow
and breathe through city parks and rings of the periphery. Also, having a lung that filters micro particles of smog just above one of the peripheral roads of the city is something unequivocally beneficial to the health of its inhabitants. Finally, and perhaps most representative of the Parisian identity, this is a project with the ability to create a new “art de vivre”, an inspiring approach
through which being “tres chic” create a trend, I live surrounded by beauty natural and architectural art. This is definitely a Paris type project. n Ing. Christian Vos
You can find a video of this project in Flormarket’s blog: www.editorialverdimedia.net. Courtesy: Flormarket Global
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Industry Perspective
‘Innovation, and not imitation is the way forward’ — Mohd. Sameeuddin Ahmed, California Agriculture L.L.C.
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alifornia Agriculture L.L.C. was set up in 1980. Today, apart from Dubai, the company has expanded to Sharjah and Fujairah too. Dealing in thousands of varieties of indoor and outdoor plants, forest trees, palm trees, avenue trees, California Agriculture is more into imports than exports. In order to cater to the needs and demands of the customers in the UAE, various varieties of plants are imported by California Agriculture from Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, Vietnam and China. The company owned farm is based in Fujairah, where seasonal varieties are grown. In a recent interaction with Naveen Grover of Floriculture Today, Mohd. Sameeuddin Ahmed of California Agriculture said that nursery sector in the UAE is flourishing very well. Although the government does not provide any support in the form of subsidy, it guarantees the ease of doing business. “There is only an import duty of five per cent, which is applicable on anything that you import and apart from this we have to pay a fee to the different departments”, said Ahmed.
When asked about the growth and development of the nursery sector in the UAE, he said that earlier they even used to supply to the government departments and organisations. However, now the private sector is the major consumer base. As awareness is growing, people are also having plants at their homes and within the residential complexes. Landscaping has emerged as an important sector as part of the urbanisation drives in the UAE. Many new players have entered the scene now and are playing an active role in the development of the industry. Commenting upon this, Ahmed said, “It is good to have new players too. But, I feel the competition should be a healthy one and not just imitative. As part of growth and healthy competition, in
my opinion, one should try to bring in and introduce products that are innovative and will help in the further expansion and successful growth of the sector. Innovation, and not imitation is the way forward. If we are able to do this then we are surely moving in the direction of healthy competition.”
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Micro Greens
Indoor beautification & human health through Microgreens the miniature herbs of the future Pradip Karmakar, Jaydeep Halder, A.B.Rai, and R.B.Yadava
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icrogreens, a new generation smart food, are gradually gaining importance amongst the health conscious people due to its easy availability and higher nutritional values particularly rich content of minerals, vitamins and other bioactive molecules. Microgreens are young, tender, edible plants that are harvested as seedlings when they normally reach to the first true leaf stage. They should not be confused with sprouts, which are germinated seeds lacking true leaves, while microgreens are typically grown in trays sunlight and considered as an exciting, colourful, epicure alternative to sprouts. Microgreens are sold as a raw produce for use in salads, sandwiches, and also for garnish purpose. Microgreens production generally requires secluded surroundings, such as a greenhouse or high tunnel. The short turnaround time and potentially high nutritive value of microgreens can seem attractive to the producers but the commercial production is highly labour intensive. Depending on the crops used for growing microgreens, they have primary leaves of different sizes, shapes, colours and textures, with varying flavours like mildly sweet in sunflower, pungent in mustard or bland in horse-gram (Di Gioia
Wheat is often taken as microgreen
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et al., 2015). They are considered as unique type of greens that can be used to enhance the beauty, taste and freshness of various dishes by chefs in hotels and restaurants. In Indian dining, microgreens like green coriander leaves and mint leaves are used for garnishing various dishes and also as components of vegetable and fruit salads. As they are delicate and very tender, they should not be steamed or cooked before consumption. Definition of microgreen A microgreen is defined as 3 to 6 cm long plantlets having a single delicate stem, a single or a pair of fully open cotyledon leaves, and another pair of very young true leaves. When they grow beyond the two-true-leaf-stage, they are considered as “baby greens� (Treadwell et al., 2010). Advantages of growing microgreens v Production of nutritionally enriched microgreens is simple and quick requiring only very basic inputs. v It provides a wide choice of taste, colour and texture. v Growing of microgreens can increase organic consumption as untreated seeds v It can be grown in kitchen also as it
Pea, wheat, radish and basil are ideal microgreens
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required very little space. Moreover it is also suitable for vertical farming. Microgreens can be grown throughout the year as the seedlings generally do not need very specific weather conditions. It is economical because sprouts and microgreen seeds can multiply by up to 15 times their weight.
Nutritional value of microgreens Research indicates that microgreens are higher in nutritional value than mature vegetables. Moreover, the contents of chlorophylls, Vitamin A, C, E and K, carotenoids, enzymes, minerals (Zinc and Potassium) are highly variable depending on crop selected for microgreen, where it is grown, stage of harvesting, and type of growing medium used. In general, colored microgreens are considered more nutritious than lighter ones. However, further research is needed to establish the nutritional potential of different microgreens. Selection of crop A large number of vegetables, herbs and agronomic crops can be used for microgreen production. Followings are reported as the potential crops for microgreens:
Radish growing as microgreen through vertical farming
Micro Greens Amaranth
Watercress
Chicory
Spinach
Cauliflower
Radish
Dill
Melon
Broccoli
Arugula
Carrot
Cucumber
Cabbage
Mustard
Fennel
Squash
Chinese cabbage
Lettuce
Celery
Oat
Kale
Endive
Swiss chard
Soft wheat
Savoy cabbage
Escarole
Beet
Buck wheat
Durum wheat
Garlic,
Alfalfa
Pea
Corn
Onion,
Bean
Basil
Barley
Leek
Fenugreek
Fava bean
Rice
Chickpea
Lentil
Clover
Source - Gioia and Santamaria, 2015
Selection of crop is often depends on color, texture, flavor and market demand of the microgreens, but the quick and easy germination of the seeds also influence the crop selection. Lettuces may be too delicate and are often not considered good candidates for microgreens. Production site and planting The delicate nature of microgreens requires to be grown in a greenhouse, high tunnel, shade structure and/or indoors for protection against rainfall and other abiotic and biotic stresses. Microgreens are also a suitable candidate for vertical farming. These crops can be grown in conventional bench-top production system or even hydroponically. Plastic trays with drainage holes at the bottom are generally used for growing microgreens. The trays are often loaded with a sterile fiber like seeding mat or partially filled with a peat-based soilless germinating media. Hydroponic producers generally utilize aggregate culture with rock wool as the inert growing medium. Pesticide free seeds of the desired crop are broad cast densely over the growing medium. Treated seeds may have elevated levels of chemical residue in the small seedlings and are therefore strongly avoided for this purpose (Mir et al., 2016). The optimum seed density maximizes production and also helps to produce healthy and
disease-free microgreens. Depending on the crop and production system, after sowing, a light layer of growing media usually spread over the seeds. It is best to seed only one type or cultivar per tray. Irrigation with overhead mist or an ebb and flow bench system is used for growing microgreens. Healthy water should be used for irrigation as polluted water may lead to pathogenic infection to the seedlings. The ideal temperature for microgreen cultivation is 26±20C and thinning is not necessary as microgreen used to grow densely (Koley et al., 2016). Pest management The high density cropping in microgreens provides a congenial environment for the development of several seedling diseases. These young tender plants are particularly vulnerable to damping-off caused by Pythium and Phytophthora. Sometime Sclerotinia and Rhizoctonia diseases may pose a problem. Sanitation, proper plant spacing and good cultural practices should be followed to prevent these diseases. In addition, the use of a sterile soilless media may reduce potential disease problems. In case of insect problems, aphids and thrips are major threats to microgreens can easily be controlled thorough cultural and mechanical practices.
Harvest The time required from seeding to harvest varies between crop species. However, many seedlings become ready for harvest in 7 to 14 days. Microgreens are harvested at the first true-leaf stage when they are approximately 1½ to 2 inches tall. Only the stems with leaves attached are harvested and roots are left behind. Plants grown in soilless media are cut just above the soil line using scissors. Shelf-life of microgreens Generally microgreens have very short shelf-life. They must preferably be consumed immediately after harvest. Researchers are trying to optimize packages that provide the optimal atmospheric composition required to extend the shelf-life of micro-greens up to 14 days after harvest. Commercial micro-greens are most often stored in plastic clamshell containers which do not provide the right balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide for live greens for proper respiration (Mir et al., 2016). Problem of growing microgreen During the production of microgreens few problems may arise from the following factors: Overcrowding: Too much seed will cause ‘damping off’ disease where the young plants may collapse. It may also result in long, spindly stems. Over soaking: If the seeds are soaked for longer time, it may decrease seed germination and thereby reducing the overall plant population. Wrong sowing time: For most of the microgreens there is a particular time for its growing under natural conditions. Some seeds will not germinate at very high or very low temperatures. So, before growing microgreens, growers should have thorough knowledge about the ideal time as well as special climatic conditions, if required, for its proper growth and development. n Pradip Karmakar, Jaydeep Halder, A.B.Rai and R.B.Yadava ICAR- Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Pea and lentil may be consumed as microgreen for healthier life
Email – pradip9433@gmail.com
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Chemicals Industry
AVA Chemicals extends portfolio with Contract Manufacturing AVA Chemicals has been a pioneer in manufacturing chelating agents for the last thirty years. Being crowned as one of the leading manufacturers of Chelating agents (EDTA, DTPA, NTA and their derivatives), Chelated Micronutrients and Fine Chemicals, in addition, AVA Chemicals now offers Contract Manufacturing Services.
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AVA Chemicals’ team consists of well experienced and proficient chemical engineers who carry out operations in a very efficient way. The team includes chemists, well experienced experts in quality analysis and quality control, data scientists and market researchers who study the market according to current trends and provide the best technical solutions for future in terms of product and process advancement. We assure to provide you with a one roof solution for all contract manufactured products efficiently in terms of operation, regulation and cost. Hence, reducing your burden of manufacturing and reduce the supply chain, enabling you to focus on your core competencies. How do we deal with Custom/ Contract Manufacturing? 1. We deal with the manufacture of over 200 different inorganic fine chemicals. Such products are manufactured for large pharmaceuticals on campaign basis. 2.
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We have also developed special capabilities in “custom manufacturing” of inorganic fine chemicals. Usually, this is done by one of the following options: The Customer either shares their proprietary process / technical knowhow OR
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Customer would seek AVA’s expertise in developing a specific product.
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In either case, we sign Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs), Confidentiality Disclosure Agreements (CDA’s) / Customer Protection Guarantee (CPG’s) etc., which is a standard practice.
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Who do we currently serve? v Contract manufacturing for Rubber Companies
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Contract Manufacturing for Oil and Gas Industry Contract Manufacturing for Metal Coating Industry Contract Manufacturing for Agrochemical Companies Contract Manufacturing for Water Treatment Companies Contract Manufacturing for Specialty Chemical Companies Contract Manufacturing for Pharmaceutical Companies
Chemical Reaction Facilities AVA Chemicals provides facilities for carrying out various chemical reactions: Acetylation
Coupling
Grignard reaction
Addition
Cyanation
Halogenation
Alkylation
Cyclisation
Hydrogenation
Amidation
Diazotation
Hydrolysis
Aminolysis
Esterification
Melting reaction
Bromination
Etherification
Nitration
Catalytic
Heterocyclic synthesis
Oxidation
Chiral chemistry
Ethoxilation
Quarternisation
Condensation
Fridel-craft
Equipment / Facilities Equipments Utilities Blender
GLR
Air Compressor
Tray Dryer
Leaf Filter
Boiler
Sieving Machine
Miller
Chilling Plant
Centrifuge
Pilot Plant- 50 Litres
Cooling Tower
Crystallizer
Rubber Line Reactors
D. M. Water Plant
Distillation Unit
Sparkler Filter
Thermo Pac
Evaporator
Spray Dryer
Vacuum Pumps.
FBD
SSR
Water/ Steam Jet ejector
Reactors ranging from 2 KL to 10 KL Capacity
Water Ring Pump
QC/QA Equipments AAS
Oven
Analytical Weighing Balance
pH meter
Boiling Point Apparatus
Polarimeter
Dual Wavelength U.V. Cabinet.
Potentiometric Titration Apparatus
Gas Chromatography (GC)
Pycnometer
HPLC
Spectrophotometer
Karl Fisher Apparatus
UV Chamber
Laboratory Oven
Viscometer
Melting Point Apparatus
Water Still 4 litre/ hr. Capacity.
Muffle Furnace
Chemicals Industry Apart from these, we have 1. Adequate, spacious, well equipped, maintained facilities that are available of producing fine chemicals, intermediates or finished products on contract/ toll basis. 2. Facilities capable of carrying out multiple stage production processes including: reactions, chemical synthesis, blending, crystallization, filtration and others. 3. Diverse experience in carrying out multi staged reactions under controlled parameters ensuring that our customers acquire solutions to complex needs of specialty fine chemicals. 4. Unique and integrated manufacturing capabilities that facilitate a strong program for made- to-order items. 5. ETP- Arrangement with local Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) for waste & effluent management. 6. Large Capacity – Our present capacity is on double shift basis and can be scaled up on depending on the need. A large part of the spare capacity can be committed for contract/ toll
manufacturing. Installed Capacity
Spare Capacity
Approx. 14000 MTs
Approx. 18 -24%
7.
Best Logistics Availability of good CHAs. Long standing relationship with leading
shipping lines, freight carriers etc. ensure timely deliveries and good logistics support. 8.
Variety in Packaging We offer a vast choice of packaging to our customers:-
Solid Products 25 Kg Plastic Bags, Kraft Paper Bags, 500 / 1000 kg Jumbo bags, Plastic Drums, Fiber Drums ranging from 25 to 100 kg. Liquid Products 50 / 65 kg Blue / Grey Carboys, 210/250 kg plastic drums, IBCs, ISO Tanks, SS Tanks, flexi tanks etc. Plant Location
Certification & Recognition
our own starting materials, we maintain a strict control over every production process. This enables us to make adjustments in materials and processing techniques at necessary points to match the exact requirements of our customers’ specifications. If you are looking for immediate and unique business solutions, outsourcing of your products, process scale-up, custom manufacturing or an extension of your manufacturing line, AVA Chemicals is ready to discuss your specific requirements and offer n appropriate solutions. For more details contact: Mr. Viejay Bhatia, Head Business Development, AVA Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. Telephone: +91-22-42559418/+91-7045913282 Email: sales1@avachemicals.com / vb@avachemicals.com
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Demonitisation
Demonetisation impact
Steep fall in flower sales across the country
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raders selling flowers and boutiques have seen sales dropping drastically since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement on demonetisation. A survey done two weeks after the announcement showed that horticulturists and those in the wholesale and retail business of flowers, bouquets, garlands, floral decorations in Maharashtra and other states have lost almost 80 per cent gross turnover. “From a daily sales of Rs 12 to Rs 13 lakh a month, the business has now come down to a mere Rs 3 lakh,” said Shashikant Viswanath Auti, a qualified horticulturist, in Pune, who is a wholesaler of roses. Sales drop Mumbai’s phool galli in Dadar, wears a desolate look on. There is neither any rush at any of the flower stalls nor haggling for prices to buy the many-hued flowers in the market. With Rs 100 denomination currency in short supply at the banks and the ATMs, too, and the new currency in Rs 500 denominations just trickling in to the system, customers are hard pressed to
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buy flowers. That is not a priority for now as daily essentials have to be stocked. Marriage functions too have started curtailing the scale of flower decoration and the ones who are into lavish floral decorations simply thrust the annulled notes into the hands of the florists. “What do you want me to do? Say, I can’t accept it,” asks Shyam Pandurang Bhagat, a fifth generation flower seller at Dadar. Most of the florists at the Dadar market are retailers who live in homes on rent with extended family members -- wife children, brother and his family. Bhagat pays Rs 15,000 as rent and has to pay for electricity and water bills, too. Either his children or nephews stand in queues at the bank to deposit the cash while another stands in the queue for exchange of old notes. When the queue gets closer to the bank counter, the children call either Bhagat or his brother who then go to the bank and deposit cash or exchange the annulled notes. Business is only 20 percent of what it was before the monetisation announcement. “We have customers who come to us daily and pay at the end of the
month,” said Bhagat, who are the only faithful to be seen outside the stall now. The big ticket buyers have thinned down considerably. The same plight that Bhagat is facing since 9 November, plays across the country in the flower business. Though almost all in the business of flowers hailed the PM’s decision to root black money, they also complained that the ‘devil’ in the details was missed. Auti, a qualified horticulturist, who worked in Nigeria for many years returned to India a few years ago and decided to set shop in Pune. He cultivates almost 4 acres of farm where he grows only roses. “It was a good business with a turnover of Rs 12 to Rs 13 lakh a month,” he said. The business has now hit bottom with a turnover of a mere Rs 3 lakh. Auti does not own the farm and has to pay the owner of the land rents ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 a month depending on the location of the land holding. Each acre of land yields 2,000 to 2,500 flowers daily and he had a workforce of 16-18 people. However, with the drastic drop in business, Auti has cut down the
Demonitisation workforce to just 6 people and has started working in the farm himself. “I cannot pay Rs 9,000 a month to my labourers when the business is down by one-third,” he said. Since all the roses are not sold on a daily basis, Auti dumps the flowers in his farm after plucking them so that they become manure to his field. He also ‘manipulates’ the leaves so that they can bloom late. The physical intervention in the growth of flowers will affect its cycle for six months, at least, he said. “But I have no choice. I can’t sell all that blooms here,” said Auti. Auti feels that though the money is slowly trickling into the economy with new currency notes, it will take at least three months if not more, to get businesses like his back on an even keel. Farmers upset On 17 November, Shaktikanta Das, Economic Affairs Secretary, announced that the government had decided to permit farmers to draw up to Rs 25,000 per week against crop loans sanctioned and credited to their accounts. The government also decided that the time limit in crop insurance premium cases would be extended by 15 days. Under the new concessions offered
to the farmers, they can withdraw Rs 25,000 per week from their account which farmers receive either by cheque or which is credited by RTGS accounts. Kisan Credit Cards will be subject to the same new limit, Das added. But Auti disagrees that government benefits have benefited the actual farmers. “Who is the farmer? I am the one who is tilling the land and giving the farmer or landowner a rent for using his land. The government is not offering me any credit or concession but to the owner of the land,” he said. Down South, in Chennai, where wearing flowers on hair is a daily habit of women in the metro city, flowers are now sold at a premium. The women who brought over two or three handspans of flowers have settled for half a handspan, says Muthumariappan of Venkateswara Flower decorators, Chennai. He sells flowers in retail too, besides focusing on his main business of decorating at weddings and events. Muthumariappan has been in the business for a decade but says he hasn’t seen such hard times like he has witnessed in the past 10 days. “Everything has changed and the business has seen a
drop of almost 75 percent,” he said. People give him old notes which he refuses to accept though that severely impact his business. He says that he has to focus on the business and can’t wait in queues in the bank to deposit or exchange old notes. He has also made a decision to only accept cheques now. “I cannot afford to risk this old and new currency note business. It is better to take cheques and deposit them and not fear when or if the government will decide to go on such a move again,” he says. He also sells flowers in the retail in small quantities. “That is to ensure the sale of flowers and get some fixed money,” he said. In Kolkata, a wholesaler flower seller, who refused to reveal his name, said that the market has been completely battered by demonetisation. “I have lost almost 99 percent of my business. From a daily sale of Rs 25,000, my sales now are only Rs 5,000,” said a seller who owns a shop in Salt Lake. “I have switched to accepting only cheques now,” he said. Courtesy: Firstpost
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Floral Compositions
FIORI BERTOLA CHRISTMAS COMPOSITIONS WITH PORTA NOVA RED NAOMI
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arking the festive season in exceptional style; floral artists Annalisa and Antonella have used Porta Nova Red Naomi roses to create unique compositions that not only capture the Christmas spirit but are also a brilliant display of great floristry. The team from Fiori Bertola company in Italy created this range of compositions in tune with nature by using tree trunks, bark, and other materials collected in the woods as the bases for their arrangements. “We have not used any artificial material in the creations; these compositions are exclusively natural. We’ve used berries, pine cones, meline, leaves, twigs, pine, and other materials in natural style with Porta Nova Red Naomi roses,” says Annalisa. Fiori Bertola is located in Mortara Italy and has been in operation since 1951. Currently run by Annalisa and her mum Antonella, the
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In their Christmas compositions, Fiori Bertola use other decorative elements to further enhance the natural beauty of Porta Nova roses. Annalisa also says that Porta Nova roses are not only great for Christmas compositions, but also suitable for other large events such as parties or weddings.
Annalisa busy at work creating gorgeous Christmas compositions with Porta Nova Red Naomi roses
flower-shop owes its success to a clear passion for the craft of floral design and the tightknit relationship between Annalisa and Antonella. “We chose this job with passion and love,” says Annalisa. “We are scholars of floral art, creators of dreams, a unique couple, inseparable, mother and daughter, pink and poppy, black and white… We are Antonella and Annalisa!” she affirms. Asking her where she draws inspiration for her work, Annalisa says that for them it is all about making
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arrangements that are unique and with soul. Creations inspired by the wonders of nature which to her is the single most important teacher. They strive to create art that is made with love and care, passion and precision. “Fiori Bertola has become an important reference point for all those seeking refined and original compositions. Our way of working thrives on professionalism and passion, exuberance and precision, combined with a solid theoretical and practical preparation.
On 2016 Christmas Trends Gold and Nature…. Annalisa identifies these as among the 2016 Christmas floral trends. “Glamour golden vases, pearls, gold butterflies, valuable materials are the accessories used in the most elegant Christmas line. Candles continue to be the trend for Christmas 2016, and we have decided to use them in both collections. In particular we have a Christmas dinner setting that is a complete magical atmosphere that I wanted to call “Romantic Dinner for two”; precious golden cups, red roses, strings of pearls, petals and scented candles give a naturally warm and romantic atmosphere. n
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News
UAE students successfully implement vertical farming
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tudents at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) have successfully implemented vertical farming for the first time within the context of the harsh climate of the United Arab Emirates. The project, which was prepared by two junior biotechnology students, Najath Abdulkareem and Nada Anwar, was one of several submitted by the university as part of the UAE’s second annual Innovation Week, an initiative mandated by the prime minister of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Dr. Abdul Gafoor Puthiyaveetil, chair of the university’s biotechnology program, supervised the two students. Discussing the significance of the research,
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Dr Abdul Gafoor stated, “With the rapidly increasing population of the planet, we expect the earth’s population to reach 8.5 billion by 2050. Food production is more important than ever. The students have adapted the idea of vertical farming as an innovative method of dealing with this ever-increasing demand.”
Vertical farming allows plants to be grown indoors, using a tiered platform, with a combination of sunlight and LED lights. Dr. Abdul Gafoor was quick to list off the advantages of such a system, explaining, “As all the growth takes place indoors, this strategy of self-sustainability does not require the use of herbicides and pesticides, effectively making this a source of healthier food for individual homes.” Demonstrating their project during the innovation exhibition at Ras Al Khaimah’s Exhibition Center, Najath and Nada showed how the tiered platform minimizes the space required to grow herbs and vegetables, while maximizing efficient water-use; once the top layer is watered, the water filters down to lower
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News
levels. It was also pointed out that the controlled indoor environment led to quicker growth. The students went on to emphasize the low-cost nature of the project, commenting, “We bought all of these plastic containers
at our local supermarket. Then it is just a case of assembling the pieces and buying soil and seeds.” Najath and Nada have successfully grown the likes of basil, parsley, rosemary and mint within their own homes. It
is hoped that further research could lead to this system becoming popular among individual households, as well as being implemented for large-scale food production.
US (VT): Researchers grow saffron with help from Iran
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affron, grown for centuries for its aromatic, culinary and healing properties, is literally more valuable than gold; made from the crocuses’ stigmas, the spice can fetch as much as $5,000 per pound. Recent medical research suggests that saffron’s therapeutic and medicinal applications may include lowering blood cholesterol levels, preventing convulsions, fighting cancer and combating depression. To that last point, saffron could someday help mitigate the midwinter blues of Vermont’s farmers in more ways than one. Over the past year, researchers in the University of Vermont Department of Plant and Soil Science have concluded
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that high-quality saffron can be grown in Vermont even during cold months, when farmers lack options for lucrative cash crops. It took an agricultural researcher from the world’s largest saffronproducing region — northeastern Iran — to recognize the spice crop’s potential in Vermont. Three years ago, Arash
Ghalehgolabbehbahani was visiting his wife, Agrin Davari, who’s an entomological researcher at UVM. During his visit, Ghalehgolabbehbahani, who completed his doctoral thesis in Iran on an unrelated subject and is now a postdoctoral researcher at UVM, asked research professor Margaret Skinner a simple question: “Why doesn’t anyone grow saffron in Vermont?” As Skinner recalls, her answer seemed like a no-brainer at the time: “Because it’s too darned cold!” she told him. Indeed, Khorasan, the Iranian province that produces 90 percent of the world’s saffron, couldn’t be more different from the Green Mountain State. It has a semiarid climate, and the temperature rarely drops as low as it does in Vermont. But Ghalehgolabbehbahani suspected the flower could still survive here. He knew that the saffron crocus is a hearty plant — cold-resistant down to minus-4 degrees Fahrenheit — and relatively easy to cultivate. Even in Iran, it’s harvested in the fall and winter.
News
Afghan growers invest in greenhouses
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onstruction work on 100 greenhouses has been launched for better agriculture growth and development in the southeastern Khost province in Afghanistan. Governor Hukam Khan Habibi said the 100 greenhouses were being built at a cost of $700,000. He said with the completion of the greenhouses, 650 tonnes of fresh vegetables would be supplied to the market annually and residents would have vegetables in every season. Haji Mohammad Khan, a resident of Ismailkhel district who has set up a greenhouse on half an acre, said: “Its production is five times higher than ordinary land.
Australia: Super greenhouse boosts yield in climate extremes
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esearchers are working to arm Australia’s protected cropping growers with the infrastructure to secure the highest possible commercial-yields with minimal energy, labour, nutrients and water outputs. This week, Horticulture Innovation Australia and Western Sydney University led an industry tour of the construction of a $3.5 million Greenhouse Research and Education Training Facility, which comprises eight plant growth chambers and around 12kms of control cables. Each chamber is individually controlled with adjustable light, humidity, temperature and carbon dioxide settings, giving researchers the opportunity to determine the best possible growth environment for Australia’s unique climate conditions. Western Sydney University researcher Prof David Tissue said traditionally, a lot of protected cropping equipment and
technology used in Australia has been imported. This greenhouse, which has been developed with the Netherlandsbased world-leading agriculture university, Wageningen (WUR), will help determine the optimum requirements for local conditions. “This greenhouse is the first of its kind in Australia, with the nearest known equivalent facility being in the Netherlands,” he said. “For the first time, it will allow us to test the interacting and separate factors that affect the growth of various produce types.”
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Date of Publishing 25-26 Every Month Date of Posting 3-4 Every Month
Postal Regn. No. DL (S) - 17/3212/2015-17 R.N.I. Regn. No. 63761/96