Jasmine- a neglected plant for Government

Berhampur, September 20,2006 (VISAKEO): Although jasmine plantation and its business are regarded as the small-scale industry in the State, the Government has ignored the problem of the farmers through which they under go. Even this flower business is recommended in the international market, the State Government is unaware of its fragrance. The jasmine business is enhancing the economic growth in the State with the transaction of 40 crore per annum.

Jasmine, a shrub with fragrant flowers is by and large found in the sea coast of Ganjam district with the area range of thousand acres of the jungle. It is a profitable business for the residents of the area like Rangeilunda, Chikiti, Chattrapur, Hurudunga, and Berhampur. For the improvement of this business, the center had decided to establish the distillation plant in Berhampur, but everything went into vein. While majority of people are dependent on this business, the State Government is not providing a healthy environment for marketing, hybrid seeds, and bank loans to the poor farmers. Although the jasmine oil is highly demanded in abroad, the State Governmentis in slumber and nothing is going into his nose. The business shows 40 crore of transaction every year to the government and the administration also collects tax from the profitable business. The center has realized the quality of production in Ganjam district and approved for opening up a professional training center in Berhampur. Further, the union cabinet has planned to donate above 50 lakhs to the State but the State Government fails at providing a proper land for the distillation plant. As per the Nature, jasmine plant takes 4 to 5 year to produce flower and the farmers become hopeless and unemployed for 7 months in a year. The 10 rupees cost flower fails to satisfy its farmers demand providing only seasonal employment. The local unit of the district has brought the allegation to the jasmine industry professional helping center expansion officer V.V.Ramarao. The distillation plant will be set up and the farmers will be given more facilities after the discussion with the district collector, Mr. Ramarao said.