Indian Saffron

Saffron, valued as a spice, medicinal herb, and a dye, has been prized from ancient times, and it is still the world’s most expensive spice since that time. In the Indian subcontinent, saffron is grown only in the Kashmir valleys, where it is the legendary crop. It was the prized possession of kings and queens. Saffron is acclimatized to hill sides and plateaus (locally called karewas) in altitudes between 1500 and 2400 m amsl. Currently, over 16,000 families spread over 226 villages are engaged in saffron farming, not only for decent livelihood but as a family profession as well. This chapter highlights various research and development initiatives that are underway for doubling the saffron farmer’s income by increasing production and productivity. Policy initiatives of the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Govt. of India, and research support of SKUAST-Kashmir India has not only given stability to the saffron area, production, and productivity but has also opened new options for promoting saffron cultivation in new areas, which is expected to increase saffron production to meet the national demand. Aside from brief discussions on the biological, biochemical, cytological, and molecular aspects, this chapter also summarizes important modules for enhancing productivity and quality through integrated nutrient management systems, mutation breeding approach for creation of variability and for yield gains, and in vitro micropropagation of saffron for quality corm production. Establishment of the India International Saffron Trade Centre (IISTC) has given assurance to the growers for quality promotion and marketing under one-roof processing, quality testing, and e-trading. Seeking of GI tag to Kashmir saffron from GI Authority of India is a step forward toward promotion of authenticated quality brand “Kashmir Saffron.” Climate change over the years have become a serious threat for the saffron industry; therefore, future research has to be focused on to mitigate the ill effects of climatic changes so as to ensure sustainability and profitability in saffron farming system of Jammu & Kashmir, which represents one of the major saffron (Crocus sativus L.)-growing areas of the world.