Homegrown Saffron Cultivation: Transforming a 10×10 Room like Kashmir Oasis, Aiming for 1kg Yield
Kashmir, often referred to as heaven on Earth, is renowned for producing the most expensive saffron. In the days to come, with the help of aeroponic technology, individuals can cultivate saffron in their homes, not just in Kashmir but anywhere in the world. This means that you can embark on your own saffron cultivation project right within the confines of your home and achieve success!
Producing One Kilogram of Saffron
A couple residing in Vadodara’s Gotri area successfully started a saffron cultivation project in their home, achieving 30 grams of saffron in the pilot project. Encouraged by this success, they are now working towards producing one kilogram of saffron. Their journey began in a 10×10 room at their residence, creating a Kashmir-like environment for saffron cultivation. With careful planning and dedication, they are now closer to their goal.
Studying the Kashmir Way
Vibhav Patel, with a BBA degree, and his wife Astha Patel, a postgraduate, created a successful saffron pilot project in their home. They studied the techniques involved and practiced farming methods, including understanding the local climate, soil, and atmosphere. This knowledge helped them start the saffron cultivation research in September-October 2022, with actual production beginning in May 2023.
Importing Saffron from Kashmir
To enhance their saffron cultivation project, the couple sought information about saffron farming in Kashmir and implemented innovative aeroponic technology. In August 2023, they imported 400 kilograms of saffron seeds and carried out planting in a 10×10 room, setting up an efficient production process.
Maintaining Kashmir-Like Temperature
Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for saffron production. The couple monitors and maintains a temperature range similar to Kashmir’s climate, keeping the room temperature between 5 and 25 degrees Celsius. The aeroponic technology they used doesn’t require constant watering, making it more efficient for saffron cultivation.
Aiming for One Kilogram Production
The saffron cultivation project incurred an initial cost of 6 to 7 lakhs, and the investment is expected to be recovered within 10 years. With successful implementation, they now believe they can achieve a production of one kilogram of saffron. They plan to not only sell in local markets but also explore export opportunities in the coming years.
Providing Training to the Community
Vibhav Patel emphasizes that no work is too small. Following the success of their project, many individuals have expressed interest in learning about saffron cultivation, prompting them to offer both offline and online training. Their company, named “Safe Threads,” sells saffron at a price that reflects the quality of Kashmir saffron. They believe in empowering and educating the community.
Government Assistance Needed
Vibhav Patel urges the government to provide support to those who have embraced modern technology for agriculture. While modern techniques have been incorporated, individuals practicing modern farming methods are not receiving subsidies. He believes that if the government supports startups that use modern technology in agriculture, it can lead to significant improvements and benefits for the community.
