Advance in saffron research for integrated development of saffron in Kashmir, India

Research lead to development and release of GAP for saffron cultivation, mechanization, water management, integrated disease management and postharvest management with an aim to double farmers income and profitability. Technologies gave birth to the National Saffron Mission for revival of saffron Industry that has improved overall production from 9.6 (2009) to 16.5 M.T. (2016). Birth of the commercially viable in vitro micropropagation protocol has further strengthened quality corm production sector leading to possibility of saffron diversification to new areas of J&K (12400 ha) with an aim to enhance production to 80 M.T. Saffron research in non-traditional areas gave farmers a valuable substitute to the cereal farming system. Research on genetic enhancement through clonal selection and mutation breeding approaches has led to the development of 'Shalimar Saffron-1' as first potential clone suitable under high density plantation with an average productivity of 14.5 kg ha^-1. Advanced research on karyotyping, pollen abnormalities, morphological descriptors, biochemical and molecular descriptors has been completed for seeking GI status for Kashmir saffron as FAO has already recognized 'Saffron Pampore' as Globally Important Heritage System. Research on emerging issues of biotic and abiotic stresses is underway for making farming system more sustainable. The Ministry of Agriculture Govt. of India is helping for revival of saffron industry in J&K. Birth of saffron spice park in Pampore will promote an official Kashmir brand under one roof of processing, packaging, quality testing and e-trading.