Srinagar, Nov 6: – The saffron cultivators in Kashmir are anticipating a bumper crop this year, with favorable weather conditions contributing to the robust growth of the prized spice.
The timely rainfall and natural multiplication in carom produced bunches of flowers have been cited as crucial factors for the expected bumper saffron crop. Despite a delayed start to cultivation due to a shift in weather patterns, the saffron fields are now adorned with large bunches of flowers, reminiscent of the good old days.
Gawhar Jahangeer, a farmer from Pampore in south Kashmir, expressed satisfaction with the saffron crop this year. He attributed the positive outcome to timely rain and suitable temperatures, creating an ideal environment for the saffron plants.
For the first time in decades, farmers are experiencing a pattern where large bunches of saffron flowers can be collected on a cloth known as “Dagoon.” This marks a significant shift from recent years, where such large bunches were missing from the fields.
Jahangeer highlighted the importance of timely irrigation and called on authorities to utilize irrigation facilities to further enhance saffron production in the region. The saffron farmers also emphasized the need for functional irrigation systems and raised concerns about the poor irrigation facilities provided by the authorities.
While the saffron farmers are optimistic about the bumper crop, they also face challenges such as alleged discrepancies in the fixed rates for saffron and competition from Iranian saffron in the market.
The Director of Agriculture Kashmir, Iqbal Chowdhary, assured that the authorities are addressing issues related to irrigation and adulteration. He mentioned plans for a buyer and seller meeting to decide saffron rates on the spot and emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting saffron cultivation in the region.
The anticipation of a bumper saffron crop brings hope to farmers and contributes to the rich agricultural tradition of Kashmir.
