A section of women in Kalimpong are increasingly getting into the cultivation of cacti and succulents, both as a hobby and a source of income.

The region's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and well-drained soil, is well-suited for growing these plants. The district horticulture department of Kalimpong has extended support to the women, especially those residing in remote areas, to cultivate cacti and succulents and sell them.

Sanjay Datta, the district horticulture officer of Kalimpong, said 100 people in the district are involved in indoor plant cultivation and 90 per cent of them are women.

“Earlier, this practice was carried out on a smaller scale. Now, women who are involved in the practice, have become experts in cultivating varieties of cactus species and succulents and we are supporting them. These plants are sold locally and also to visitors, and even exported to other states,” said Datta.

Such plants, he said, have huge demand and are used as home decor.

“The initiative has provided economic empowerment to these women. The cultivation of cacti and succulents is a sustainable agricultural practice that needs low maintenance. This makes the cultivation a viable option for those with limited resources,” the official added.

The horticulture department, he said, has taken the initiative to train the women on modern horticultural techniques, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.

“The idea is to improve productivity and quality. They are also being provided with subsidies and low-interest loans so that they can buy necessary materials like seeds, pots and soil. We have also provided them polyhouse material, which helps them to continue cultivation even during the monsoon season,” said Datta.

The department is also extending support to them to create market linkages by organising fairs and exhibitions where they can showcase and sell their plants. “This increases their market outreach and helps them in getting better prices of their products,” the officer said.

Sources said that individual farmers as well as members of self-help groups (SHG) are receiving benefits from the department.

Many polyhouses, each measuring around 100 square metres, have come up in Kalimpong for the cultivation of these indoor plants. The department has given materials such as polythene, agro net, channel, spring, nail and drip irrigation kits to the cultivators.

Along with those engaged in the cultivation of indoor plants, there are around 2,000 people who are availing benefits of the scheme and producing ornamental flowers, plants and exotic vegetables.

Pinki Subba, a Kalimpong resident who is into cacti and succulent cultivation, said she is making around ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 in a month.

“We are directly selling our produce from nurseries and also in weekly rural markets where spaces have been provided to us. Some of us are even into online sales as there is a steady demand for these indoor plants,” said Subba.