Saffron (Crocus sativus Kashmirianus) Cultivation in Kashmir: Practices and Problems

The Kashmir valley is well known for quality saffron and represents one of the major saffron-producing areas of the world, dating back to 750 AD. However, in the last decade production and productivity of this crop has shown a declining trend. This paper highlights the practices followed in saffron cultivation in Kashmir and discusses different factors responsible for the decline in saffron production. It also stresses the need for using quality planting materials, a sprinkler irrigation system, pest and disease control measures and an efficient marketing system for increased profitability. Pressure due to increased urbanization on land on which saffron grows and clandestine saffron smuggling are contributing towards the decline of the saffron industry, and these have also been discussed.