KATHMANDU: Minister for Forests and Environment, Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi, has underscored the importance of import substitution of flowers and the advancement of their export.

At the inauguration of the horticulture exhibition organized by the Nursery Association Nepal (NAN) at Bhrikutimandap today, Minister Sudi emphasized on boosting flower exports.

He highlighted the immense potential for herb and horticultural product production in Nepal, stressing the need for inter-agency coordination among all relevant bodies to harness this potential.

“With the promotion of horticulture, thousands of individuals can find employment opportunities within the country, thereby reducing the migration of youths abroad and instilling hope for employment prospects at home,” Minister Sudi remarked.

Furthermore, Minister Sudi suggested that forest land could be allocated to facilitate the growth of horticulture.

The exhibition aims to cater to nursery business enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, flower enthusiasts, and horticulture researchers.

Ramji Kunwar, the coordinator of the expo, described the upcoming event as a comprehensive gathering of the nursery sector.

The expo will showcase various commercial nursery products including flowers, fruits, forest produce, and herbs, with over 700 plant species from different nurseries. It will also feature fertilizers, organic and chemical pesticides, seedlings, equipment, and agricultural technologies.

The organizers anticipate over 50,000 visitors and transactions worth Rs 10 million. General admission is Rs 100, while students and senior citizens will be charged Rs 50.

The expo aims to advocate for the welfare of nursery entrepreneurs nationwide, enhance their professional capabilities, and contribute to job creation.

Various competitions will be held during the expo, with cash prizes and certificates awarded to nursery entrepreneurs to encourage their participation.

The expo will offer horticulture-related services and is supported by the Floriculture Development Centre, Department of Botany, Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Centre, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development Centre.

RSS