from Sanjay Borkar
for Daijiworld Media Network - Margao (GA)

Margao, Feb 15: Florists across the state have made a business of around Rs 1.5 crore on Valentine's Day this year.

Normally rose, which is sold for five rupees, was not available for less than Rs 15 on Valentine’s Day and for Rs 10 two days prior to the Valentine's Day. 

When contacted, Margao-based florist Prashant Naik, said that at least 10 lac roses are sold every year on Valentine's Day across the state. They are mainly brought from Bangalore and Belgaum and he added that sale of roses might have just touched the peak this year. "But as usual among all red roses were on more demand on lovers' day," he added.

As there is no rose cultivation in the state on a major scale, we have to depend on other states to meet the ever-growing demand.  Looking at this, I believe that it is high time that we too get into this business.  I presume at least about 10 to 11 lac roses have been sold on Valentines' Day this year," said Raju Naik, a florist from Ponda.