Horticulture in eastern India is becoming a force for hope for the country's unemployed youth.
Flowers symbolize the future and opportunity for many unemployed youth in India. The horticulture department of the eastern Siliguri region in India's West Bengal state organized a unique flower show aimed at encouraging the country's younger generation of would-be green thumbs. Around 100 varieties of flowers were showcased and the rows upon rows of them dazzled show-goers with their sights and smells. Nantu Pal, who organized the event, said that he hopes to use the show to give work to those in need. Nantu Pal said, "Gardening is a very easy job to learn and use. The federal government should help encourage horticulture in hilly areas. This could put large numbers of the unemployed to work." Hordes of gardeners, horticulturists and locals came to learn about gardening and flower growing. About 50 flower stalls showcased a variety of plants and flowers, including orchids from northeastern Indian states and Cacti from hilly regions. But it was the Angelina flower that stole the show. Ritanjali, exhibitor, said, "We are getting out highest response from the consumers for the Angelina - as the weather of hilly regions is well suited to this plant. The plant is in high demand in Kolkata, New Delhi and other flat areas." With the creativity and imagination on show here, the Indian government is hoping to lure the nation's youth into the stability and self-reliance of steady work.
