The Department of Agriculture, Nicobar Islands, is emphasizing the promotion of tropical cut flowers such as Heliconia, Ginger Lily, and Alpinea, recognizing their strong commercial potential and suitability to the region’s agro-climatic conditions.

Under the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) scheme of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), farmers can avail subsidies of up to 50 per cent, capped at Rs 62,500 per hectare, for a maximum of two hectares, disbursed in two instalments.

Officials highlighted that floriculture will not only provide steady income but also generate employment, boost eco-agro tourism, and empower women through Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

Efforts are underway to establish market linkages, connecting Island-grown flowers with mainland markets and the local tourism sector, enabling farmers to capitalize on rising demand while showcasing the Islands’ unique biodiversity nationally.

The initiative is part of a broader push to diversify livelihoods, strengthen the horticulture sector, and make Nicobar a hub for premium tropical flowers.