The saffron crocus’ golden blossom, which has represented Kashmir’s incomparable beauty and economic strength for centuries, is losing its shine.
The already notorious saffron industry of the region is facing a disaster once again, and the farmers in the Pampore area are giving a grim account of a total downfall in this year’s production by a disastrous 85-90 per cent.
This is not just a slight reduction in the output; it is a complete breakdown of the system, which may force thousands of households into deep economic suffering and also, the wiping out of a cultural heritage that has been the mainstay of the Kashmiri identity for hundreds of years.
Where once farmers looked forward to a good harvest, they have now been left with crops amounting to only 10 to 15 per cent of the usual production. This is not only a number; it is about storerooms being empty, debts piling up, and a community undergoing a very anxious and insecure phase.
It has been a very hard season for the grower who has put all his resources in terms of money into this most expensive spice.
The Kashmir saffron crisis is a disaster that humans have created, as it is a disaster formed by a perfect combination of neglect and environmental change.
Experts have been warning for a long time about the rapid depletion of groundwater sources due to the expansion of cities without any control and the widespread installation of tube wells.
The unique soil and water of the Karewas are being completely dug up to get clay for building materials which will make the blooming of saffron crocus more difficult because the plant’s roots won’t be able to penetrate the ground.
The gradual change of climate is another factor of weakness. The crop is being disturbed by changing rainfall patterns and heat waves during off-seasons which are all not good for the plant’s growth cycle.
The government’s attitude has been one of support, especially the expensive National Saffron Mission initiated over ten years ago that aimed at rehabilitating the area mainly through better irrigation and infrastructure. This has gradually been benefitting the farmers.
The situation calls for more than just a temporary solution or the government expressing their sympathy.
A multi-pronged strategy that will very quickly address the current suffering while assuring the sector’s future sustainability is needed.
The government should quickly carry out a transparent evaluation of losses and compensate financially the producers so they can get through this unfortunate season and be ready for the next one. This is a pressing humanitarian issue.
Agricultural universities and research institutions have to be called upon to find saffron strains that can withstand climate change and educate farmers about water conservation through harvesting techniques that are sustainable.
It would be very wrong if the reshaping of the Karewas was not disaster-proofed.
