Cultivating Change: Exploring the Role of Floriculture in Sustainable Development among the Mao Tribe in Manipur

Abstract

Floriculture is a thriving industry globally, contributing significantly to economies like Kenya's. Yet, in Manipur, commercial flower cultivation remains largely overlooked, often relegated to a domestic pursuit. However, the Mao community, nestled in Manipur's northern reaches, embraced flower cultivation modestly in the late 1970s. Despite its small scale, the region's soil and climate proved conducive to diverse commercial flowers. Regardless of age, education, or socio-economic status, Mao women enthusiastically embraced this profession. This paper chronicles the inception of flower cultivation within Mao society, highlighting both its challenges and benefits. Through interviews with 42 women growers aged 14-62, it was found that flower cultivation typically began as a hobby before evolving into a small-scale enterprise. Lacking formal training and infrastructure, growers rely on organic methods. Nonetheless, this venture has significantly improved livelihoods and emerged as a crucial contributor to sustainable development