Saffron farmers expect bumper yield in Jammu and Kashmir

PULWAMA - Farmers in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district are looking forward to a high yield of saffron crop after climatic conditions have improved in the region with the Valley witnessing a good rainfall.

Cultivators and agriculture experts confirmed that the rainfall in the region and the suitability of the soil of the district’s Pampore area would give a bonus yield.

“This year’s rainfall, at regular intervals, is very good for saffron production. It is very beneficial for its flowers and pods, which has led to higher productivity,” said Fayaz Shora, Saffron Grower.

Earlier, the supply of saffron seldom met its high demand. Moreover, the farming was restricted to only some parts of the state, particularly the area around Kishtwar, which was considered the major domain of saffron production.

According to the Jammu and Kashmir’s Agriculture Minister, Gulam Hassan Mir, this year’s bumper production is due to the good amount of rainfall in the region.

“The most important factor for a good production of saffron is moisture, which has occurred naturally due to a good rainfall this year. I believe that this year, the production of saffron will increase and the quality will also improve,” said Mir.

The demand for saffron continues to be high, as it is wanted all over the world for its aroma, colouring and aphrodisiac properties. It is one of the world’s most expensive spices.

The saffron flowers begin to grow after the first rains and the blooming period is usually mid-October after which the flowers are harvested. By Afzal Bhat (ANI)