JAMMU — Saffron production in Jammu and Kashmir declined from 23.53 metric tonnes in 2023–24 to 19.58 metric tonnes in 2024–25, official data tabled in the Assembly on Wednesday showed.
Replying to a question raised by National Conference MLA Hasnain Masoodi, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary said the total area under saffron cultivation in the Union Territory has remained constant at 1,116.27 hectares, though output and productivity have fluctuated over the years.
According to the figures shared in the House, saffron production stood at 17.33 MT in 2020–21, dropped to 14.87 MT in 2021–22 and 14.94 MT in 2022–23, before registering a sharp rise to 23.53 MT in 2023–24. It again declined to 19.58 MT in 2024–25.
The average productivity of traditional and rejuvenated fields combined improved from 4.02 kg per hectare in 2022–23 to 6.33 kg per hectare in 2023–24, but slipped to 5.27 kg per hectare in 2024–25.
Choudhary said saffron exports during 2024–25 were recorded at 17.82 MT, down from 20.47 MT in the previous year. The value of saffron production during the year stood at Rs 534.53 crore, while export earnings were pegged at Rs 486.43 crore.
Providing details of traditional (non-rejuvenated) saffron areas, he said production from these fields was 5.02 MT in 2024–25, with productivity of 4.5 kg per hectare, compared to 5.44 MT and 4.87 kg per hectare in 2023–24.
The deputy chief minister said efforts are underway to stabilise and enhance saffron productivity through improved agronomic practices and rejuvenation measures. — (PTI)