The festive season has brought new opportunities and financial prosperity for flower growers in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. With the increasing demand for marigold and gladiolus flowers during festivals, weddings and other celebrations, local farmers are witnessing a significant improvement in their earnings. Flower cultivation is gradually emerging as a profitable agricultural activity in the district, providing farmers with an additional source of income and strengthening the rural economy. According to Yash Pal, Field Assistant of the Horticulture Department, more than 75 farmers in Kathua are engaged in marigold cultivation and earning better returns from flower production. The demand for flowers rises considerably during the festive season, with marigold and gladiolus being widely used for decorations, religious ceremonies, weddings and social functions. One local flower grower highlighted the profitability of the business, explaining that marigold flowers fetch prices ranging between ₹100 and ₹120 during periods of strong demand, generating encouraging returns for farmers. The growth of local flower production has also reduced dependence on supplies from neighbouring states. Earlier, traders and customers relied heavily on flowers transported from outside Jammu and Kashmir. However, flowers arriving from distant locations often lost freshness and suffered damage during transportation. With increased local production, fresh flowers are now more readily available in the market at affordable prices. This benefits both flower sellers and consumers while creating better opportunities for local farmers. The expansion of floriculture in Kathua reflects the growing potential of horticulture as a source of employment, income generation and economic self-reliance. The increasing popularity of flower cultivation highlights how local agricultural initiatives can strengthen farmers’ livelihoods and contribute to rural development in Jammu and Kashmir.
