Kashmir expects bumper ‘kesar’ crop; good weather to hike yield by 200%
Kashmir expects bumper ‘kesar’ crop; good weather to hike yield by 200% Saffron (kesar) is expected to bring cheers to Kashmiri cultivators this season as they are expecting a bumper yield due to good weather condition and increase in area under cultivation. As per experts, the spice that is sold for Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 1.8 lakh per kilogram had seen a poor output last year due to drought and insufficient irrigation facilities in saffron-growing areas. “Last year, the production was between 2 and 3 tonnes and this year we are anticipating around 10 tonnes on account of favourable weather conditions. Final estimation will, however, be done at the time of harvest which will start by the end of this month,” said All J&K Saffron Growers Association President Abdul Majid Wani. He said, the total area under the crop has also increased by 150 hectares. “Last year, the total area under cultivation was 3,200 hectares and this year it has touched 3,350 hectres, mainly account of new farmers bringing more land under cultivation,” he added. “In India, Kashmir contributes 99% of the total production and the rest comes from Himachal Pradesh,” Spices Board India Director Roy Joseph said. Last year, almost 70% of the crop was affected due to the drought, resulting in lower output. According to Joseph, the demand for ‘kesar’ in India is more than 25 tonnes. The demand-supply gap is met by imports from Iran. “Kesar imported from Iran is cheaper,” he said. Adulteration of inferior Iranian saffron with good quality Kashmiri ‘kesar’ is prevalent. -PTC News
