NT Reporter
Margao
The Directorate of Agriculture is intensifying efforts to boost marigold cultivation across Goa, aiming for self-sufficiency in this high-demand flower, said Agriculture Director Sandeep Phal Dessai on Saturday.
Phal Dessai acknowledged that while marigold farming currently occurs at a moderate scale, Goa remains dependent on imports from neighbouring states. “The Department of Agriculture is committed to increasing marigold cultivation to meet the ‘Swayampurna Goa’ objectives. We provide farmers with technical support, financial aid, and market facilitation. Last year, subsidies totaling Rs 1.14 crore were granted to 259 cultivators,” he said.
Of these, 156 farmers from Quepem received subsidies amounting to Rs 3,52,778, while six farmers in Valpoi were granted the highest subsidies, totaling Rs 1.93 lakh.
A marigold grower from Quepem expressed the need for timely subsidy payments and better local marketing channels to speed up sales of locally produced flowers.
Marigold cultivation has grown substantially thanks to government initiatives, boosting local production and reducing dependence on imports. In 2024, around 400 farmers cultivated 32 hectares, yielding 182 tonnes of marigold flowers.
Demand remains high, especially during festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra, Diwali, and All Souls Day, when marigolds are widely used for decorations and offerings.
Former Agriculture Director Nevil Alphonso said Goa requires 550 to 600 metric tonnes of marigold flowers each season and urged locals to support homegrown flowers even if prices are slightly higher.
Phal Dessai detailed that the government offers a 75% subsidy, capped at Rs 75,000 per hectare for new open-field loose flower cultivation.
