News Capsule: Saffron: Fears of Lower Production
27-Jan-2026 10:43 AM
News Capsule: Saffron: Fears of Lower Production
★ Saffron farmers in Kashmir are facing a sharp decline in output. Although saffron prices have nearly doubled this season, farmers have not been able to fully benefit due to a steep fall in production. GI-tagged Kashmiri saffron is currently selling at around ₹4,000 per 10 grams.
★ Last season, saffron production dropped by nearly 75%, with total output falling to around one tonne, compared with 10–15 tonnes in earlier years. Changing climatic conditions, especially prolonged dry spells during winter, have reduced soil moisture, affecting proper development of saffron corms.
★ In Jammu and Kashmir, saffron production has declined from about 8 tonnes in 2010–11 to 2.6 tonnes in 2023–24. While the current season has shown a marginal improvement, farmers believe that without better irrigation facilities and climate-resilient farming practices—particularly in areas like Pampore—the future of Kashmir’s saffron sector remains uncertain.