Saffron crop likely to be affected by adverse weather conditions

17-Feb-2026 08:46 PM

Srinagar. Despite the government implementing some restoration measures, the saffron crop in Jammu and Kashmir remains seriously threatened by adverse weather conditions, hampering crop growth and reducing yields. Data presented in the state assembly shows that repeated adverse weather events have impacted saffron yields in recent years.

According to official sources, although saffron yields have generally improved in the rejuvenated fields in Jammu and Kashmir under the National Saffron Mission, extreme weather conditions have led to significant declines in production.

The saffron crop is sometimes hit by excessive rainfall and severe floods, and sometimes by high temperatures and prolonged dry spells. Both conditions cause significant damage to the crop. This trend has been ongoing for a long time, leading to a steady decline in saffron production in the state.

Government documents reveal that in Jammu and Kashmir, saffron yields fell below expectations due to weather conditions in the 2014-15, 2017-18, and 2018-19 seasons. Before the revival program began, saffron yields had fallen to a low of 1.30 to 1.80 kg per hectare. However, thanks to government measures and support, this yield increased to 5 kg per hectare. In one year, this yield reached a high of 7 kg per hectare.

However, this increase in average yields was not fully sustained in subsequent years. In recent years, annual saffron production had increased to 11 to 18 tons, but then began to decline sharply.