Odisha's Wonderland: Vibrant orchid farming flourishes in Rourkela valleys

The lush foothills and the scenic village of Kansara, near the bustling city of Rourkela in Odisha are witnessing a remarkable bloom, with orchid flowers offering a picturesque spectacle reminiscent of India’s floral marvels.

Bright blooms of pink, yellow, and white adorn the environment, drawing the admiration of visitors and botanical enthusiasts alike.

Local farmer Arvind Mohanty has turned his personal vision into reality, by cultivating a diverse assortment of orchids in his meticulously designed greenhouse that has become a mesmerising display of these exotic flowers.

Nature's Vibrant Palette:

Growing orchids is no simple task. Unlike conventional crops, the cultivation of orchids requires specific conditions and meticulous attention rarely met in the natural environment. To meet these needs, Mohanty has erected an expansive greenhouse to protect these delicate orchids’ blooms from direct sunlight, ensuring that only diffused light nurtures their growth.

The greenhouse is a carefully controlled environment where water is gently sprayed over the plants to simulate natural rainfall, a technique vital for the orchids’ health.

“Growing orchids involves creating the perfect ecosystem. Each detail from the type of water to the amount of light, plays a crucial role in their development,” Mohanty informed.

Supporting Local Employment:

The initiative is not just a personal triumph for Mohanty but also benefits the community. Several locals are employed in the orchid garden, attending to the various plant species cultivated in meticulously organised rows, providing them with a valuable source of income.

Orchid varieties grown here include some of the most sought-after species, each requiring its unique cultivation method. Local workers have been trained to understand and nurture these colourful plants, reflecting a blend of traditional farming knowledge with modern techniques.

Delight for Visitors:

The orchid farm also attracts visitors, who come to admire the vibrant arrays, turning the farm into a local attraction and further supporting the community's economic development. Through Mohanty's efforts, the unlikely sight of exotic orchids in Rourkela is becoming a proud reality.