Saffron harvesting season: Div Com visits IIKSTC, reviews it’s functioning

Pulwama, Nov 7: In view of saffron harvesting season, the Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri Tuesday chaired a crucial meeting to review the functioning of India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC) and take stock of other important issues at the IIKSTC, Pampore.
This meeting witnessed the attendance of key officials and stakeholders, including Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr.Basharat Qayoom; Director Horticulture Kashmir, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Director Horticulture Planning and Marketing J&K, Chief Engineer MED and District officers. Saffron farmers from the region also actively participated, further highlighting the importance of their insights and experiences in the industry’s growth.
The meeting threadbare discussed the progress and achievements of the National Mission on Saffron and the initiatives taken to enhance saffron production, while simultaneously addressing the concerns of saffron growers in the area.
Director Agriculture, Kashmir presented a comprehensive review of the National Mission on Saffron, highlighting its significant role in improving saffron quality and increasing both vertical and horizontal productivity.
During the discussion, important facets highlighted by saffron growers in Pampore were thoroughly examined.
The Div Com actively engaged with the farmers, lending a sympathetic ear to their suggestions. While discussing the Mission, the Div Com directed the officers to immediately take over the completed assets and submit a detailed report on further course of action to complete all the components as envisaged in the Mission.
Additionally, a strong focus was placed on the Operational and Maintenance systems, calling for a robust community involvement and ownership through Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO). Agriculture and MED were directed to impart necessary training to empower and enable community ownership through Farmers Collectives.
Director Agriculture informed that the Saffron Park is fully equipped for value addition and quality control to ensure best returns on produce.
Later, the Div Com also conducted field visits including the Saffron Research Station of SKUAST at Dusso Pampore.
The meeting underscored the commitment of the Government to the welfare and growth of the saffron industry, aiming to ensure better prospects and livelihoods for saffron growers in the region.