Flower farmers who suffered during COVID-19 were the happiest on Valentine’s Day.
Story so far: Farmers and vendors in the city are happy as rose exports on Valentine’s Day swelled up by 20% due to all COVID-19 restrictions being expunged. While 515 tonnes of roses were exported via Kempegowda airport in 2022, 2021 saw exports of only 273 tonnes.
- Karnataka is one of the largest producers of rose varieties in India. Its domestic market includes Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati and Chandigarh, while the roses are also exported to London, Singapore, and Dubai.
- The increased demand for roses across the year has driven up their prices. In wholesale markets, rose bunches are being sold for ₹370 to ₹400. Aware of the significance of 14th February, farmers have been prioritising maximising their produce for a while.
Why it matters? COVID-19 had adverse ramifications for rose farmers in the state. Many farmers shifted to other crops to deal with demand shortages, accruing expenses, and persistent losses. In 2021, despite the government announcing a ₹25,000 monetary relief for flower farmers, several could not benefit from it. However, after restrictions eased, some farmers have returned to rose cultivation and are optimistic about its market demand.