Kashmir's saffron farmers are celebrating a bumper harvest this year, with production surpassing the record for the past decade. The saffron fields in the Pampore area of South Kashmir have transformed into a stunning purple canvas, attracting both locals and tourists. Pampore is known as the saffron town and is a major producer of saffron in the Kashmir Valley. Thousands of families in the area are involved in saffron cultivation and are currently busy plucking the saffron flowers from the fields.
Kashmir has over 3700 hectares of land dedicated to saffron cultivation, with Pampore being the main hub. However, saffron is now being grown in various districts across the valley. Farmers in Pampore are thrilled with this year's crop, which they describe as a bumper harvest after more than 8–10 years. The favourable environmental factors, including rain, have played a significant role in the success of the crop.
Tourists visiting the valley are stopping at saffron farms to witness the saffron farming process. Many tourists are also purchasing saffron from these farms, gaining a deeper appreciation for the spice's high price tag. They are amazed by the hard work involved in growing saffron, as only a few strands are obtained from each flower. Kashmiri saffron is considered the best in the world, making the experience even more special for the tourists.
The tourists also acknowledge the importance of saffron in Indian culture. It is used in various religious ceremonies and festivals, and its consumption is considered auspicious. Tourists who have been using Kashmiri saffron in their daily lives, particularly in milk for their children, highly appreciate the farmers' efforts in growing the spice.
The saffron farmers have also benefited from the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which ensures quality control and helps maintain fair pricing. Overall, this year's bumper harvest has brought immense joy to the saffron farmers of Kashmir, and the beauty of the saffron fields has become a major attraction for tourists visiting the valley.
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