NSM Scheme Rejuvenates Over 2,500 HA In 13 Yrs

Srinagar: The government has achieved significant milestones regarding saffron production in Jammu and Kashmir and efforts are on to revive the sector economically.

According to the progress report on the “National Mission on Saffron” (NSM) scheme that was launched by Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation, Government of India during the year 2010-11, over 2598.75 hectares of saffron land stands rejuvenated as on date out of 3715 hectares under the mission.

Notably, there have been reports of significant decline in saffron production in the valley from the last ten years.

The decline has been mainly attributed to climate changes, drought, market challenges, orthodox cultivation methods coupled with various biotic and abiotic stresses and poor plant stand.

Keeping in view of the serious threat to the spice and to give a boost to Saffron production and to mitigate the sufferings of the saffron growers, the central government decided to uplift the sector and announced Rs 400 crore under the NSM.

According to the agriculture department of the union territory, which is the nodal agency to implement the scheme, over 257.2819 Crore have been spent till 2021 out of 400.11 Crore.

Out of which Govt. of India’s share is 315.99 Crore while farmers share is 84.12 Crore.

The project partners for the implementation of the National Saffron Mission (NSM) are: Directorate of Agriculture, Kashmir; Directorate of Agriculture, Jammu; Shere-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology; Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture Srinagar (CITH);