Among the following states, which one has the most suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of productio, and can develop an export oriented industry in this field ?

Arunachal Pradesh is recognized as an 'orchid paradise' due to its exceptional biodiversity, harboring approximately 560 of India's 1,300 orchid species [2]. The state's diverse agro-climatic conditions, ranging from humid tropical to alpine zones, provide the ideal environment for cultivating a wide variety of orchids year-round [2]. High rainfall (over 200 cm), high relative humidity, and extensive forest cover create a natural habitat that minimizes production costs by reducing the need for expensive climate-controlled infrastructure [2]. The state government has actively initiated promotional programs to develop orchids as a sustainable, export-oriented cottage industry, leveraging these natural advantages to augment the local economy [2]. While other states like Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh produce various crops, they lack the specific montane wet temperate and subtropical climates found in the Eastern Himalayas that are essential for large-scale, low-cost orchid diversification [2].

Sources

1. [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 13: Plant Diversity of India > 13.6.5.Red vanda > p. 202
2. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 4: BIODIVERSITY > social relevance of forests > p. 21