SRINAGAR: In a groundbreaking development for Kashmir’s agricultural sector, saffron cultivation—traditionally confined to South Kashmir’s Pampore region—has made its way to North Kashmir for the first time. Mudassir Ahmed Bhat, a local farmer from the remote village of Heevan Narvaw in Baramulla district, has successfully pioneered the cultivation of saffron in this new region, marking a significant milestone in Kashmir’s farming history.
Mudassir began this bold endeavour in 2020, driven by a desire to explore alternative farming opportunities in a district where saffron cultivation had never been attempted. His vision to break away from traditional crops and introduce saffron to Baramulla has now come to fruition.
“In our area, everyone focused on traditional crops, and we wanted to do something different. That’s when the idea of saffron cultivation came to us—something that had never been tried in Baramulla,” Mudassir explained in an interview.
The journey to success, however, was not without its challenges. Saffron, a delicate and valuable crop, requires very specific soil conditions to thrive. Mudassir had to prepare the land meticulously, enriching it with organic vermicompost to ensure it would support saffron growth.
“We took the land in March and rested it for several months, preparing it with natural compost. In 2020, we sowed saffron bulbs for the first time. Initially, the results were modest, but we kept at it, nurturing the crop and ensuring proper care,” Mudassir recounted.
His persistence and careful attention paid off. By 2023, Mudassir achieved a successful and abundant saffron harvest, marking a significant triumph for the farmer and his community.
“This year, the flowers bloomed beautifully. It’s been a rewarding experience, showing that nothing is impossible with persistence and hard work,” Mudassir proudly stated. His success has boosted his confidence and inspired fellow farmers in the region, many of whom are now eager to follow in his footsteps.
“We’ve shown that it’s possible to grow saffron here, and now other farmers are looking to follow suit. It’s a green signal for the entire district,” Mudassir added.
The expansion of saffron cultivation into North Kashmir holds tremendous potential for the local economy. Traditionally recognised as one of the most expensive spices in the world, saffron could provide significant financial returns to farmers, diversifying their income streams and reducing their dependence on conventional crops. Furthermore, this development could position Baramulla as a new hub for saffron production, potentially challenging South Kashmir’s long-held dominance in the industry.
Mudassir Ahmed Bhat’s success is not merely an individual achievement but a beacon of agricultural innovation in Kashmir. His journey demonstrates that with the right mindset, determination, and techniques, regional boundaries can be transcended, offering new opportunities for growth and prosperity. As more farmers in Baramulla begin to embrace saffron cultivation, this breakthrough could revolutionise the district’s agricultural landscape, ushering in a new era of economic and farming success.
(With KINS inputs.)
