Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during this year’s last radio programme entitled “Mann kiBaat” called upon citizens to make Kashmir grown saffron popular in the international market. Kashmiri saffron had been granted a Geographical indication (GI) status earlier this year and is known for its unique fragrance. Kashmir saffron has been known since ages for its unique taste and fragrance.
Saffron, is primarily grown in Pulwana, Budgam and Kishtwar regions of Kashmir.
Interestingly, there seems to be no crop protection product, either of biological or chemical nature registered under the Insecticides Act 1968. Further, neither are there any attempts visible to have saffron grown in other parts of India through protective cultivation under the horticultural practices adopted by various states. Owing to the fact that saffron is highly priced due to its limited cultivation and harvested yield, as against its wide use in various Indian cuisine and sweets. The prospect to further promote cultivation under controlled environment through protective cultivation needs to be seriously explored.
Attempts to increase cultivated area of saffron in Kashmir needs to be thought upon. This will increase in helping the farmers increase their income and meet demand for the product globally.
