If the winter gloom is getting to you, it’s time to go see some spring in the national capital. The eighth edition of the three-day International Flora Expo will begin in Delhi from January 11, with fresh flowers, bright colours and sweet fragrances. The expo, touted to be largest exhibition on floriculture, nursery and greenhouse technology, is expected to see participation from 14 countries, including China, Germany, Thailand and Israel, among others, Indian Flowers and Ornamental Plants Welfare Association (iFlora)’s statement said.

“This year, for the first time we shall have an event from a ladies’ organisation — World Association of Flower Arrangers. Top women designers from four countries like Oman, Holland, Singapore and Pakistan, will be coming. They are bringing a concept called Building Floral Bridges Across Nations with them. Its a joint activity with us” iFlora president S Jafar Naqvi said.

“Our objective is to encourage youth, especially educated girls to take up floriculture,” Naqvi said. They say the flower export from India has come to R300 crore from over R750 crore, as the domestic market has grown thereby lessening overseas trade. “The estimated floriculture market in India is of R13,500 crore, of which, maximum is unorganised,” Naqvi said. 

Phools’ show
What: International Flora Expo
When: January 11 -13
Where: NSIC Complex, Okhla Phase III