Agricultural production of cash crops is growing as a way to decrease rural poverty in developing countries. As elsewhere in the global south, flower cultivation in India is increasing. However, there is very little critical analysis of its impacts on the poor. This study employs a sustainable livelihoods approach in a flower growing center of Panskura region of Purba Medinipur district of Indian state of West Bengal. Mixed methods were employed to collect data like household survey, semi-structured interview, case history, participant observation and focused group discussion. Findings suggest that small-scale farmers participate in flower cultivation. Although cultivators of the studied villages do not presently have access to export markets, there is robust domestic demand for traditional varieties. Unfortunately, cultivators do not have equal access to formalized training and awareness as well as some cultivators facing declining soil fertility. Last of all, flower cultivation fills gaps in the agricultural cycle for very poor casual labourers and proper knowledge.
