Kashmir saffron has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry. In other words, it has got unique recognition and protection for its geographical and human factors besides exceptional health and medicinal benefits.
The Kashmir Saffron has gained its name over the ages due to its unique qualities such as high Aroma, Deep Colour, Long and Thick Threads (Stigmas). Its uniqueness is directly attributable to the geographical and climatic conditions of growing areas. It is the only saffron in the world produced, grown and cultivated at an altitude of 1,600 m to 1,800 m AMSL (above mean sea level), which adds to its uniqueness and differentiates it from other saffron varieties available the world over. It grows because of the altitudinal effect whereas in other places saffron is grown because of longitudinal effect.
One more unique attribute to the saffron in Kashmir is that it is grown in temperate climatic conditions while it is grown in other places in arid or semi-arid climatic conditions.
Moreover, the saffron fields of Pampore (Pulwama), Budgam, Srinagar and Pooch are surrounded by snowcapped mountains for at least 3-4 months after the winter season is over, which has a great impact on climate, especially temperature of that region. The high mountain peaks also affect the rainfall, which plays a very crucial role in the production, yield and qualities of Kashmir saffron. Besides the geographical factors which make Kashmir saffron unique in itself, the human factors also do have a great impact on its quality. The traditional method of planting, time period of planting, irrigation, time and quantity of supply of organic manure and vermicompost, etc. to the saffron fields also differs in Kashmir as compared to other saffron growing areas globally.
Its longer and thicker stigmas, natural deep-red colour, high aroma, bitter flavour, chemical-free processing, and high quantity of crocin (colouring strength), safranal (flavour) and picrocrocin (bitterness) makes it unique.
The Kashmir Saffron also has the distinction of being the purely chemical-free, organic and safest as well as the preferred choice of the consumers.
Saffron is a rich source of proteins, vitamins (riboflavin and thiamine), potassium, iron, copper, zinc, sodium and manganese thus imparting antioxidant property to it.
The GI is a collective right, unlike other Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) which guarantee the protection of individual interest. While the Kashmir Saffron had qualified now, its producers can use the collective GI mark while commercially exploiting their products. The GI will also help in curtailing the unapologetic and insensitive practice of adulteration. One hopes that the GI will give a big push to Kashmir saffron while it protects its uniqueness and market worldwide.
GI Tag For Saffron
