The Hessarghatta-based Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) has developed new variety of marigold called ‘Arka Shubha’.
- What makes it unique from other verities, is that it will fetch money even if the flowers get spoilt as it can be used for extraction of crude carotene, which is mainly used in the pharmaceutical sector.
- All marigolds have a carotene content of up to 1.4%. However, the Arka Shubha variety of marigold has a carotene content of 2.8%, which is the highest content from a plant source.
- Presently, India imports most of its carotene from China and other countries.
- These flowers can be sold for ornamental purpose too.
- The new variety is of use in the poultry sector too, as its petals could be used as feed to get quality yolk.
(Source: The Hindu)
