The Association of People with Disability (APD) inaugurated its Valentine Garden Fair on Friday at its Doddagubbi campus, highlighting how structured horticulture training can create sustainable livelihoods for persons with disabilities.
The fair, which will continue until February 22, features plants cultivated by 150 trainees enrolled in APD’s Livelihood Horticulture Residential Training Programme.
Showcasing green skills
Visitors can explore a wide range of plants, including orchids, air plants, medicinal herbs, ornamental foliage, fruit saplings, flowering varieties and select vegetables. Landscaping models and practical plant-care demonstrations offer insights into sustainable gardening and green space development.
The exhibition marks the culmination of months of residential training, during which participants gain hands-on experience in plant identification, cultivation techniques and garden management. From planting saplings and systematic watering to maintaining plant health, trainees are involved in every stage, equipping them with employment-ready skills.
Empowerment through enterprise
Inaugurating the fair, M Jagadeesh, Additional Director of Horticulture, Lalbagh, emphasised the growing demand for landscaping in both public and private spaces.
Revenue generated from plant sales will be reinvested into the programme to support food, accommodation and training for future batches. After completing the course, APD facilitates job placements for graduates as gardeners and supervisors in residential complexes and schools.
The initiative stands as a powerful reminder that with the right support and opportunities, inclusive skill development can transform lives while nurturing greener communities.