Arunachal Pradesh stands out as the ideal state for cultivating a diverse range of orchids with minimal production costs, holding the potential for establishing an export-oriented industry. Orchids, known for their decorative blooms, thrive in regions characterized by moderate climatic conditions, such as sub-tropical areas with ample rainfall. Particularly common in the North-Eastern states, Arunachal Pradesh’s ecological conditions and climate variations make it a paradise for orchids, earning the state the well-deserved title of the Orchid State of India.
Question: Among the following States, which one has the most suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of production, and can develop an export oriented industry in this field?
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Arunachal Pradesh
(c) Madhya Pradesh
(d) Uttar Pradesh
This question was previously asked in UPSC Civil Services Exam 2011 Prelims.
Answer: The correct answer is: (b) Arunachal Pradesh
- Orchids are decorative flowering plants. They grow in regions with moderate climatic conditions (Sub-tropics with decent rainfall). They are typical to North-Eastern states.
- Arunachal Pradesh boasts highly favorable ecological conditions and climate variations, making it a haven for orchids. Therefore Arunachal Pradesh is often called the Orchid State of India.
- With approximately 60% of the Indian orchid varieties, the state has earned the title of the Orchid State of India.
- There is a great demand for these decorative flowering plants exists in South-East Asian region.
📌📌📌 Explanation:
Arunachal Pradesh is the most suitable among the listed states for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of production and the potential to develop an export-oriented industry. This choice is based on the following factors:
- Climatic conditions: Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern region of India, has a climate that is well-suited for the cultivation of orchids. It provides the moderate climatic conditions, with adequate rainfall, required for the growth of these decorative flowering plants. Orchids, thriving in warm tropical moist areas, require a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity. Their population gradually decreases as one moves poleward from the tropics. Orchids exhibit a unique duality, being found both as terrestrial and epiphytic plants.
- Natural habitat: The northeastern states of India, including Arunachal Pradesh, are known for their rich biodiversity and diverse flora. They are home to various orchid species, making the region naturally conducive for orchid cultivation. Around 800 species of orchids found in the Northeast region.
- Export potential: There is a great demand for decorative flowering plants, including orchids, in the South-East Asian region and other international markets. Arunachal Pradesh’s geographical proximity to Southeast Asia and its favorable climatic conditions make it an ideal candidate for the development of an export-oriented orchid industry. There are different types of orchids, including Cymbidium spp., Dendrobium spp., Erica spp., Aracus spp., Selogenia spp., Agrostophyllum spp., etc. Among these, Cymbidium spp. stands out as the most expensive and holds significant value in the international market.
Given these factors, Arunachal Pradesh is well-positioned to cultivate a wide variety of orchids with low production costs and capitalize on the export potential in the field of orchid cultivation.
🏅🏅🏅 Additional Information:
Orchid Conservation and Research Centers in Arunachal Pradesh, India
Tippi Orchid Research Centre and Sessa Orchid Sanctuary are both notable locations associated with orchids, particularly in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh.
Tippi Orchid Research Centre:
- Location: Tippi Orchid Research Centre is situated in Tippi near Bomdila in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
- Role: It serves as a research center dedicated to the study and conservation of orchids. The center focuses on understanding the various species of orchids found in the region and promoting their conservation.
Sessa Orchid Sanctuary:
- Location: Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
- Role: This sanctuary is specifically established for the conservation and protection of orchids. It provides a natural habitat for a diverse range of orchid species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Both Tippi Orchid Research Centre and Sessa Orchid Sanctuary play crucial roles in the preservation and research of orchids in Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to the state’s recognition as the Orchid State of India.
