Saffron production in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has declined to 19.58 metric tonnes (MT) in 2024–25 from 23.53 MT recorded in 2023–24, according to official data tabled in the House.
In a written reply to a question raised by Hasnain Masoodi, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary said that while the total area under saffron cultivation has remained constant at 1,116.27 hectares, overall output and productivity have fluctuated over the past five years.
As per the data shared, saffron production stood at 17.33 MT in 2020–21, declining to 14.87 MT in 2021–22 and marginally improving to 14.94 MT in 2022–23. The sector witnessed a sharp rise in 2023–24 with output reaching 23.53 MT, before falling again in 2024–25.
Average productivity, combining traditional and rejuvenated fields, improved from 4.02 kg per hectare in 2022–23 to 6.33 kg per hectare in 2023–24. However, it slipped to 5.27 kg per hectare in 2024–25.
Exports also registered a dip during the period under review. Saffron exports in 2024–25 were recorded at 17.82 MT, compared to 20.47 MT in the previous year. The total value of saffron production during 2024–25 stood at ₹534.53 crore, while export earnings were pegged at ₹486.43 crore.
Providing details of traditional (non-rejuvenated) saffron areas, Choudhary said production from these fields was 5.02 MT in 2024–25, with a productivity of 4.5 kg per hectare. In 2023–24, traditional areas produced 5.44 MT, with productivity of 4.87 kg per hectare.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the government is making efforts to stabilise and enhance saffron productivity through improved agronomic practices and rejuvenation measures aimed at strengthening the sector.
