Agra, October 24 (TNA) The Horticulture Club, Agra, organised a grand Bougainvillaea exhibition at Verdant Acres, showcasing more than 3,000 colourful plants representing 18 different species and varieties of the hardy ornamental plant.
The exhibition was formally inaugurated by chief guests Dr B.K. Banerjee and Dr Sudipa Ghosh. Well-known environmentalist Brij Khandelwal and noted economist Ved Prakash Tripathi ceremonially opened the event by cutting the ribbon.
On the occasion, the Horticulture Club conferred Lifetime Achievement Awards on Dr B.K. Banerjee for his outstanding contribution to floriculture and on Dr Sudipa Ghosh for her exemplary work in the field of education.
New Varieties Displayed
Speaking at the event, Dr Banerjee explained the development of several attractive Bougainvillaea varieties through mutation breeding and hybridisation techniques. Among the prominent varieties displayed were Pallavi Variegata, Los Banos Variegata, Mahara Variegata and Pixie Variegata.
Dr Mukul Pandey, renowned naturalist and coordinator of the exhibition, highlighted the history of Bougainvillaea and the diversity of its species. He said the plant can survive with limited water and thrives in hot climatic conditions.
Dr Pandey also drew attention to the plant’s emerging Ayurvedic applications, besides its ornamental value. The large collection on display attracted considerable interest among visitors and distinguished guests.
Suitable for Agra Climate
Bougainvillaea is particularly suited to Agra’s dry and arid environment because of its drought tolerance, vigorous growth and dense foliage. The plant’s ability to flourish with limited maintenance makes it suitable for urban greening initiatives.
Environmentalist Brij Khandelwal of the River Connect Campaign said Agra should promote the large-scale plantation of Bougainvillaea. He noted that hardy, low-maintenance plants could help improve the city’s green cover and contribute to controlling air pollution.
Khandelwal further said that widespread plantation of Bougainvillaea could enhance Agra’s visual appeal while supporting efforts to improve the urban environment.
Winners of Competition
The Horticulture Club also organised its annual Bougainvillaea competition as part of the exhibition. Smt Kanchan Ahuja won the first prize, while Smt Veena Sachdeva and Smt Anita Gujral jointly secured the second prize. Ram Kumar Agarwal received the third prize.
The programme was attended by Horticulture Club President Lovely Kathuria, Secretary Daisy Gujral, Treasurer Renu Bhagat, Deepika Tyagi, Colonel Apoorv Tyagi and several other distinguished guests.