Oranges on display at the 3-day Inter-State Orange Mela in Lalbagh | Nagaraja Gadekal P / Express

A wide range of oranges, kinnows, grapes and many other fruits are up for grabs.

The Horticulture Department, in association with National Horticulture Board,  is organising a three-day Inter-State Orange Mela at Lalbagh Botanical Garden from Friday.

Addressing reporters, S V Hittalmani, additional director, Department of Horticulture (Fruits), said the objective of organising the mela was to create a platform for marketing, through direct participation by farmers.

“Farmers from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, North-eastern states, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu will participate in the mela. This event will also provide them (farmers) an opportunity to learn from one anothers’ performance and experience,” he added.

“Prices of fruits will range between Rs 45 and Rs 65 per kg. People should look at the quality of produce than comparing prices. Rare varieties of saffron and spices grown in Kashmir will also be sold at the mela,” he said.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / Home> Cities> Bangalore / by Express News Service – Bangalore / January 04th, 2013