ICAR-DFR, Pune releases improved flower crop varieties during Reform Utsav 2026

ICAR–Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune, released four improved flower crop varieties and two innovative technologies during Reforms Utsav 2026, fulfilling its commitments towards promoting research-based innovations, enhancing farmers’ income and strengthening the floriculture sector.

The varieties and technologies were jointly released by Dr K. V. Prasad, Director, ICAR-DFR, Pune, and Dr N. G. Patil, Director, ICAR–National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur.

The four improved varieties included DFR Pallavi, DFR Swarna and DFR Megha in chrysanthemum, and DFR Soham in gladiolus. These varieties reflect ICAR-DFR’s sustained research efforts to diversify floricultural crops, provide improved varieties to growers and create opportunities for enhancing farm productivity and income.

© Indian Council of Agricultural Research

Two innovative technologies were also released on the occasion. DFR Phool Shakti is a technology designed to enhance the vase life of cut flowers, helping improve their postharvest quality and marketability. DFR Khushbu is a value-added product developed using essential oils from ornamental basil for use as a car freshener or room freshener. The technology offers scope for the value addition of ornamental plant resources and the development of market-oriented floral products.

The released varieties and technologies are expected to benefit farmers, nursery entrepreneurs and other stakeholders by providing improved planting material and promoting value addition and entrepreneurship in the floriculture value chain.