News Capsule: Weather impact hits J&K saffron output; signs of price firmness
17-Feb-2026 03:45 PM
News Capsule: Weather impact hits J&K saffron output; signs of price firmness
★ Saffron production in Jammu & Kashmir continues to be hit by extreme weather despite revival efforts. Assembly data shows sharp yield declines in 2014–15, 2017–18 and 2018–19 due to floods and prolonged dry spells.
★ Although productivity improved to 5–7 kg per hectare in some years under the rejuvenation programme, output remains volatile. Untimely rain and temperature fluctuations during the flowering stage directly affect stigma formation and yields.
★ More than 2,500 hectares have been covered under the revival scheme, yet farmers say last season’s production was only 10–15% of normal levels.
★ Lower output and tight supplies are indicating firmness in saffron prices.