Bilal Habib
Pampore, Sept 25: Chief Agriculture Officer Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rehman, inspected saffron sowing in Pampore and inaugurated the saffron seed plantation of progressive farmer Javaid Ahmad Ganaie at Patalbagh.
Officials from the Agriculture Department said the sowing season is underway, and timely rainfall has provided adequate soil moisture, resolving irrigation challenges and raising expectations for a good harvest this year.
Talking to Kashmir Convener, farmer Javaid Ahmad noted that saffron sowing typically occurs from mid-August to the end of September. This year, heavy rains slightly delayed the process, but sowing is now in full swing.
He urged farmers with stored seeds to complete sowing within the next six days. “Saffron is our identity and economic backbone. With hard work and commitment, we can revive this industry,” he said, adding that favorable rainfall will benefit production wherever corms have been planted.
Javaid Ahmad acknowledged declining seed quality over time but expressed optimism about improvement through government support. He highlighted schemes such as the Jammu & Kashmir Cluster Irrigation Project (JKCIP) and the National Saffron Mission, which offer financial incentives and guidance.
“Farmers can now apply online, track applications digitally, and avail assistance without visiting offices,” he said.
He emphasized that agriculture is central to the region’s economy and called on farmers to actively participate in these initiatives.
Chief Agriculture Officer Waheed-ur-Rehman said that sowing activities are progressing across saffron-growing areas of Pampore. He confirmed that timely rainfall has ensured sufficient soil moisture, enabling an excellent crop this year. The officer encouraged farmers to continue sowing until the end of September.
He also highlighted government schemes supporting saffron cultivation. Under the National Saffron Mission, sufficient funds are available for field renovation, and farmers are urged to participate to complete pending work.
The JKCIP scheme provides financial assistance of Rs 27,000 per kanal, and officials aim to cover as many areas as possible before the sowing season ends.
The Agriculture Department emphasized that active farmer participation in these schemes, along with government support, will strengthen Kashmir’s saffron industry and ensure sustainable growth in the region.
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