Pampore, Nov 22 (KNN) Kashmir is celebrating a bumper saffron harvest which has broken a 10 year long yield record and families in Pampore which is a saffron hub are bustling in plucking saffron flowers.

With over 3700 hectares under cultivation, the success extends across various Kashmiri districts as the spice is important in Indian festivals, garners appreciation, while the Geographical Indication tag ensures quality and fair pricing, bolstering farmers' economic prospects.

Pampore is located in Pulwama and is a major contributor to saffron production, with thousands of local families actively involved in cultivation.

Expressing their elation at the bumper crop farmers in Pampore said after years of uncertainty, the current crop has not only met expectations but exceeded them. The positive environmental factors, especially favourable rainfall, are credited for this remarkable outcome.

The saffron fields have become a tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are eager to witness the saffron-growing process. Tourists are not only observing but actively participating, purchasing saffron directly from these vibrant and flourishing farms.

Beyond its agricultural significance, saffron holds cultural importance in Indian festivals, featuring prominently in pujas and traditional festive sweets. Additionally, the Geographical Indication (GI) tag has played a crucial role in ensuring quality control and fair pricing, benefiting the saffron farmers economically.

(KNN Bureau)