Orchids have been known in lndia right from Vedic period as plants of medicinal value and also of ornamentation. A retrospect
of orchid trade in lndia reve als that it began with the supply of wild orchids to western countries during British era in 19th
century in a small way that too from the Himalayan region to cater to the needs of hobbyists and nursery men abroad. There has
been consistent efforts in India for evolving indigenous hybrids. Attempts have also been made to cross exotic species and hybrids
with indigenous species and exotic hybrids and species have added to our germplasm collection and to our agro biodiversity.
Critical observation of the origin of some of these hybrids reveals that they are primary hybrids of yester years. The exotic hybrids
and species have a positive effect in creating awareness on the potentials of orchids on orchid based floriculture in India.