Bengaluru is set to become the hub of an international flower market, which will be constructed on a five-acre plot at the prestigious GKVK campus of the University of Horticultural Sciences (UHS), Bagalkote. The initiative, led by the Horticulture Department in collaboration with the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) for flowers, fruits, and vegetables, aims to enhance the flower trade in the region with advanced infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies.
Officials from the APMC and the Horticulture Department recently conducted an inspection of the proposed site for the market, which was deemed suitable for development. Following the inspection, UHS Bagalkote approved the transfer of the five-acre land to the Horticulture Department on a lease basis. This move sets the stage for the construction of what is expected to be a state-of-the-art facility for flower traders.
UHS Vice-Chancellor Vishnuvardhan confirmed the land lease and mentioned that the University Board had sanctioned the formal request. “The lease for the five-acre plot has been granted for the purpose of setting up the international flower market,” he said. Discussions are also underway regarding the financing of the project, with options being explored for building the market through a public-private partnership (PPP) model or with the help of national institutions such as NABARD.
The new market is expected to accommodate up to 200 stalls, providing ample space for flower growers, traders, and exporters. With the integration of advanced technologies, the market will serve as a one-stop destination for the floriculture industry, making it a significant addition to Bengaluru’s agricultural infrastructure.
The floriculture sector in Karnataka has been growing steadily over the years. Currently, the state has around 35,000 hectares of land dedicated to flower cultivation, with 10-12 districts, including Bengaluru, being key contributors. The Bengaluru district alone grows flowers on 535 hectares, producing an estimated 2,100 tons annually. Despite the significant size of this multi-crore industry, there has been no dedicated facility to support the flower trade in the region.
In response to the growing demand from flower farmers for better infrastructure, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in the current fiscal year’s budget, announced plans for an international flower market in Bengaluru. The announcement has been welcomed by farmers and traders alike, as it promises to address the infrastructure gaps that have hindered the growth of the industry.
Once completed, the new international flower market will be a game-changer for the flower farming community in Bengaluru and surrounding districts. Currently, flower farmers face multiple challenges, including inadequate market facilities, limited access to trading platforms, and poor storage options. By establishing a modern facility equipped with the latest technologies, the new market will provide farmers with improved infrastructure, enhanced marketing opportunities, and access to both domestic and international buyers.
The project will also ensure that flowers are traded in a more efficient and transparent manner. The planned use of advanced technology will improve the quality control and grading process, making it easier for buyers to assess the flowers before purchase. Furthermore, the presence of 200 stalls will offer flower farmers a reliable and accessible platform to sell their produce, potentially leading to higher profit margins.
The land transfer comes with several conditions that must be adhered to during the construction and operation of the flower market. Among these, the preservation of existing trees such as jackfruit, cashew, mango, and coconut on the site is crucial. The Horticulture Department has been instructed to ensure that these trees are protected as much as possible during the development of the market.
Additionally, once the market is operational, 50% of the revenue generated from its operations will be allocated to UHS Bagalkote. This revenue-sharing arrangement is part of an effort to ensure that the university, which has provided the land for the market, benefits from the project in the long term.
Another important requirement is the construction of necessary infrastructure, including external roads, compound walls, and other essential facilities. A formal agreement must also be established with the APMC’s flower, fruit, and vegetable division, which will oversee the functioning of the market once it is up and running.
The establishment of an international flower market in Bengaluru will provide a significant boost to the floriculture sector. The market’s modern amenities, better infrastructure, and strategic location will make it easier for flower farmers to connect with buyers, thereby increasing sales and improving profitability. It is expected that the market will not only cater to local demand but also attract buyers from across India and abroad, enhancing the global competitiveness of Karnataka’s flower industry.
In the long run, the flower market is also likely to create job opportunities for thousands of people, including traders, labourers, and administrative staff. As the market expands, it could become a key employment generator in the region, further driving economic growth.
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