Saffron Growers Seek Supply of Quality Corms

Kashmir's iconic saffron industry is on the brink of collapse, with growers warning that the next season’s production could plummet to a catastrophic 5% unless the government intervenes immediately.

- Observer News Service

The growers said that consecutive dry spells during the crucial autumn, summer and even winter months have severely affected corm health, putting the next season's production at grave risk.

Farmers from several saffron-growing belts of Pulwama and other areas have urged the government to ensure the availability of certified, disease-free, high-yield corms well before planting begins next year.

Without timely intervention, the growers warned that the Valley could witness further low production in the coming year, as autumn this year has remained dry again.