Orchid conservation efforts in U'khand bearing fruit

Orchid conservation efforts by Uttarakhand Forest Department have begun to bear fruit with rare varieties of flowers found in Himalayan region blooming in full glory at Orchid Park developed in Mandal valley famous for its association with Chipko movement.

More than 25 local varieties of orchids have been grown at park developed on a barren stretch of land in Khalla vill van panchayat around 13 km from Chamoli district headquarters.

Conducive conditions were created at park in-situ by research wing of state forest department for natural growth of orchids by conserving baanj forests in area.

Range officer Harish Negi who has been associated with research and development of park said one hectare of land in Mandal valley was identified for project a year ago and more than 25 local varieties of orchid have so far been developed re during period out of which many have blossomed.

re are at least 67 varieties of orchids in Mandal valley which alone constitutes 30 per cent of total varieties of flowers found in Uttarakhand, Negi said.

colour diversity of orchid flowers, ir varying shapes and enduring freshness are biggest speciality of this vegetation which makes it centre of attraction of flower lovers all over world, Negi said.

Rich in medicinal qualities, orchid vegetation which needs special climatic conditions to grow is considered an essential part of ecological system and plays an important role in horticulture.

Orchid plants found in Himalayan meadows are recognised for ir medicinal virtues, Negi said, adding 'salam panja' is its leading example.

Considering importance of orchids in ecological system, results of initiative taken by research wing of state forest department are really encouraging, Chief Coordinator of CPB Environment and Development Centre Vinay Semwal said.

According to forest department data, Uttarakhand is home to around 238 varieties of orchids.

Locals put orchid plants to a variety of uses including 'mangal snan', a preliminary marri ritual in addition to or cultural and religious ceremonies, ted environment activist Murari Lal said.

Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh are leading states in country growing orchids on a large scale.