Leh: 

Ladakh has taken this love for saffron to the next level with its government collaborating with the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) in Leh to grow it locally.

From the beautiful saffron fields of Pampore in Kashmir, the love of the aromatic spice has made people attempt to grow it in their own backyards outside the valley.

The institute, in collaboration with the Union Territory's Agriculture Department, is working to introduce saffron cultivation among farmers by transferring technology and sharing expertise.

Saffron to be grown in both Leh and Kargil

Recently, Bhupesh Chaudhary, Secretary of the Agriculture Department, directed officials to identify suitable villages and locations for saffron cultivation in both Leh and Kargil districts.

The department will cultivate saffron on a trial basis this year, with technical support from CSIR-IIIM. Additionally, the Secretary emphasised the need to develop a comprehensive policy on saffron cultivation, including demonstration projects and training programs for farmers in partnership with CSIR-IIIM.

A significant step towards expanding saffron farming in Ladakh, LAHDC and UT Ladakh have allotted land for the initiative, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) officially signed in 2024 for 56 Kanal and 6 Marla of land in the Palam area.

This initiative aims to establish a sustainable model for saffron cultivation, leveraging Ladakh’s agro-climatic advantages while addressing key challenges such as seed procurement, soil fertility, and water availability.

CSIR Expert Explains

Zabir Ahmad of CSIR-IIIM Experimental R&D Station, Palam, Leh, said, “We started saffron cultivation in 2023. The reason for cultivating it is not economic benefit but its religious significance, which is why we introduced it. That is how CSIR-IIIM initiated this project. In Ladakh, we have worked based on three key concepts. First, the need—since saffron holds cultural and religious importance. Second, Ladakh typically yields only one crop, and saffron is harvested in September after sowing, making it a viable option. Third, Ladakh faces water scarcity, and saffron requires minimal water."

"The biggest challenge we face is obtaining the best quality seeds. Currently, we source our seeds from our farm in Tangmarg, Srinagar. If we can study and adapt the seeds to Ladakh’s conditions, it could be a game changer for the region. That is why we are also focusing on seed research.”

Ahmad said their research is still ongoing and is being conducted on a trial basis. As part of the research, they will also analyze the chemo profile of saffron. and additionally plan to standardize the cultivation protocol for saffron in Ladakh’s climate.

"Saffron is also used in AYUSH, and if its cultivation proves successful, people can grow it in their courtyards to obtain high-quality saffron for personal use. Another potential benefit is seed multiplication. We have been studying saffron cultivation for two years at the Palam farm, growing it in open fields until the end of October. Additionally, we have conducted trials in greenhouses. Our approach is farmer-friendly, cost-effective, and easy to implement. We have also experimented with saffron cultivation in pots."

Ahmad said they have tested saffron cultivation at multiple locations and distributed seeds to two to three farmers, achieving good results. Saffron is relatively easy to cultivate but requires proper walling for protection. CSIR-IIIM, in collaboration with the Agriculture Department, held a meeting where it was decided to select farmers from Leh and Kargil and distribute saffron seeds on a trial basis, he said.

The Agriculture Department, as per him, will provide incentives, while CSIR-IIIM will conduct training sessions. So far, the flower output has been promising.

Kargil man narrates his saffron cultivation experience

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