In an ambitious bid to provide much-needed thrust to the State's horticulture sector, a national-level horticultural expo is being planned by the Assam Agriculture Department. The event would take place from February 10 to 14 next year at the Sankardeva Kalakshetra, where some permanent landscaping would also take place. The event will involve not just the agriculture departments of all the States, but would witness the participation of private sector and NGOs, especially those organisations using new technologies. The expo has an aim to act as a platform where different stakeholders could share their experiences, and with expert guidance formulate plans towards better production. Till now, horticulturists in Assam, even though blessed with favourable weather and soil conditions, have not been properly introduced to new technologies and marketing concepts. According to Harshajyoti Baruah, Director of Horticulture, Assam, the event is important because it would highlight how commercialisation of horticultural products could bring in rich rewards to farmers. "It is a fast changing sector and our farmers have to know of the various positive trends taking place in the rest of the country,' he remarked. He was of the belief that the expo would open up new linkages for the region's producers with marketing agencies leading to more fruitful ties, which are essential for future growth. The Horticulture Director had already had discussions with the Central Horticulture Commissioner, who has assured support towards the event. According to well-placed sources, the Central Commission could fund a substantial part of the expo, which includes sponsoring some of the states to take part in the programme.