The fragrant fields of saffron in Pampore, India, have long been celebrated, and during the Jashn-e-Zaffran festival at the India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC) in Dussu, officials faced the passionate voices of saffron farmers. The festival, designed to promote agro-tourism and agro-industry, took an unexpected turn as farmers voiced their concerns over declining yields and the pressing need for a drip irrigation system. This article delves into the frustrations of saffron farmers and the demands they made during the festival.
Saffron Farmers Express Frustration:
As the Jashn-e-Zaffran festival unfolded, it became a platform for saffron farmers to express their mounting frustrations and call for action from the government. The concerns raised revolved around the declining saffron yields and a perceived lack of government support.
Rodent Attacks and Crop Issues:
Farmers drew attention to the menace of rodent attacks on saffron corms, which has been a growing problem. The impact of these attacks on saffron production has caused great concern among the farming community. During the festival, these issues took center stage, emphasizing the need for immediate solutions.
The Drip Irrigation Dilemma:
One of the significant challenges highlighted by farmers was the absence of a drip irrigation system. The lack of this essential technology is particularly problematic during prolonged dry spells. It was noted that the government had introduced a drip irrigation system as part of the Rs 412-crore National Saffron Mission in 2010 to combat dry spells. However, concerns were raised about the state of the existing system and its effectiveness.
Promises and Repairs:
In response to the farmers’ grievances, officials, including Choudhary Muhammad Iqbal, Director of Agriculture, assured them that their concerns would be addressed. Specifically, the issue of drip irrigation was promised to be taken up with the relevant department. However, it was also acknowledged that many pipes within the irrigation system had been damaged, leading to the department filing an FIR for further investigation.
The Jashn-e-Zaffran festival became a platform for saffron farmers to shed light on their grievances and demand action from officials. The decline in saffron yields, rodent attacks, and the lack of a functional drip irrigation system have collectively placed immense pressure on the farming community. As the government promises to address these concerns, the future of saffron farming in Pampore remains a topic of concern and conversation.
