ICAR-NRCO, Sikkim Marks 30 Years of Orchid Research and Conservation

5 October 2026, Sikkim

The 30th Foundation Day of ICAR–National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim, was celebrated today under the theme “Orchids for a Sustainable Bioeconomy: Path to Viksit Bharat”, with a focus on strengthening orchid research, conservation, cultivation and commercialization to promote sustainable livelihoods and economic opportunities through orchid-based enterprises.

Dr Santanu Kumar Swain, Vice-Chancellor, Sikkim University, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the Foundation Day Lecture.

Dr S. P. Das, Director, ICAR–NRCO, highlighted the Centre’s achievements in orchid conservation, genetic resource management, hybrid development and scientific research. He emphasized the economic potential of orchids and the need to strengthen linkages among growers, markets, tourism and orchid-based enterprises. He also outlined the Centre’s future plans for expanding orchid cultivation, developing advanced research facilities, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT)-based technologies, and organizing exhibitions and festivals to enhance market opportunities for orchid growers.

Other distinguished dignitaries included Prof. Soumen Maitra, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), West Bengal; Dr Sanjeet Kumar, Dean, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology (ANDUAT), Ayodhya; Ms Pema Choden Bhutia, Additional Director, Horticulture Department, Government of Sikkim; Mr T. C. Bhutia, Additional Director, Horticulture Department, Government of Sikkim; along with other senior officials.

The programme featured the felicitation of Champion Orchid Growers from Sikkim and the Darjeeling Himalayas in recognition of their contributions to orchid cultivation and promotion. The celebration also witnessed the launch of the official ICAR–NRCO website, release of ICAR–NRCO orchid hybrids, and unveiling of “Zygonutri” – Customized Nutrition for Zygopetalum, ICAR–NRCO Kaushalata-Vrikshayurveda, the Orchid Epoxy Table, and various publications.

As part of the programme, orchid planting materials and agricultural inputs were distributed to growers from Sikkim and the Darjeeling region under the North Eastern Hill (NEH) programmes supported by ICAR–NIPB, New Delhi, and ICAR–IIAB, Jharkhand, and the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) of ICAR–NRCO.

A one-day medical camp was also organized alongside the celebration in collaboration with Pakyong Primary Health Centre (PHC) and the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Gangtok. The day-long celebration concluded with a yoga demonstration by the RARI team and a cultural programme.

A total of 375 farmers from various districts of Sikkim and the Darjeeling region, including Pokhriabong, Mirik and Rangbang, participated in the programme, and all received inputs comprising orchid planting materials, sprayers, silpaulin sheets and shade nets.

(Source: ICAR–National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim)