The saffron fields of Kashmir, producing the world’s most expensive spice, are under threat due to encroachment from cement factories. Despite being the second-largest saffron producer after Iran, with an average annual production of 11-12 tonnes, the industry in this region is dwindling, posing economic challenges for local farmers.
Reasons for the Decline in Saffron Production
Factors contributing to the decline include close proximity of cement factories, which emit large volumes of dust damaging both quality and quantity of saffron yield. Saffron fields in Pulwama have seen a significant decrease in cultivation over the past two decades. Environmental factors such as climate change, unexpected rainfall, and land use changes also significantly impact saffron production. Additionally, the usage of machines for ploughing affects saffron cultivation, which largely relies on favorable climate conditions.
Impact of Cement Dust on Saffron Fields
Cement dust containing harmful gases like nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide adversely impacts delicate saffron flowers. A high concentration of cement dust also leads to decreased chlorophyll, clogged stomata in leaves, and disrupts light absorption and gas diffusion, resulting in stunted growth.
Challenges Faced by Saffron Farmers
Farmers have been protesting the establishment of cement factories near saffron fields since 2005 due to environmental concerns. Despite this resistance, authorities continue to allow these factories to operate. With the market for the spice becoming less lucrative, farmers are also grappling with declining prices, quantity, and quality, casting a shadow on the industry’s future.
About Kashmiri Saffron
Saffron production in India has been largely confined to the Pampore region in Jammu & Kashmir, referred to as ‘Saffron bowl of Kashmir.’ Saffron is extracted from the male reproductive part of the saffron flower and highly valued, selling at Rs 3 lakhs per kilogram. Cultivation requires extensive labor, with a gram of kesar derived from approximately 160-180 flowers.
Saffron Cultivation Conditions
Saffron thrives at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level in calcareous, humus-rich, and well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 8. For adequate cultivation, a specific climatological summer and winter is necessary, along with an annual rainfall of about 1000-1500 mm.
Benefits and Recognition of Kashmiri Saffron
Kashmiri saffron offers medicinal properties such as lowering blood pressure, treating anemia, migraines, and aiding insomnia. Also, it is known for its cosmetic benefits, enhancing skin quality, reducing pigmentation, and minimizing spots. The central government granted a Geographical Indication certification to saffron grown in the Kashmir Valley in 2020.
Initiatives to Promote Saffron Production
The National Saffron Mission was launched in 2010-11 to show support for saffron cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, the North East Centre For Technology Application and Reach, an autonomous body under the Department of Science & Technology supported a pilot project to explore saffron cultivation in the North East region of India.
Future Strategies
To alleviate the current problems, strict environmental regulations need to be implemented and enforced for cement factories near saffron fields. Continuous monitoring and penalties for industries contributing to pollution are also essential. Furthermore, research and development efforts centered around saffron cultivation should focus on creating varieties that can withstand environmental challenges. The adoption of technology that mitigates the effects of pollutants on saffron crops also promises sustainable growth while maintaining quality.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
In a 2016 question from the UPSC Civil Services Examination, participants were asked about the overall goal of the Food and Agriculture Organization’s initiative to accord ‘Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)’ status to traditional agricultural systems. The correct answer was to identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farming practices and their associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity, and knowledge systems of local communities.
