Chief Agriculture Officer
Kishtwar holds meeting to Fix Procurement Rates for Saffron Corms
KISHTWAR, AUGUST 03: A pivotal meeting was held today at the
Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Office in Kishtwar to determine the procurement
rates for saffron corms (planting material) required under the Area Expansion
in Niche Crops initiative of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme
(HADP).
The meeting was chaired by Amjad Hussain Malik, Chief
Agriculture Officer, Kishtwar. It brought together key stakeholders, including
DAO Kishtwar Khalid Bashir Zarger, Saffron Development Officer Amarjeet Singh
Sen, SDAO Marwah Mazoor Ahmed Zarger, SMS-III Jatinder Singh, and other field
officers from the department.
The primary objective of the meeting was to engage with field
staff and progressive saffron growers to set fair and beneficial procurement
rates for saffron corms. This initiative is a critical component of the HADP,
aimed at expanding the area under niche crops and boosting saffron production
in the region.
During the meeting, CAO Amjad Hussain Malik emphasized the importance
of supporting local saffron growers through appropriate pricing strategies that
ensure their economic sustainability while promoting the growth of this
high-value crop. He highlighted the government's commitment to fostering
agricultural development and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in Kishtwar.
Discussions focused on various factors affecting the procurement
rates, including current market conditions, production costs, and quality
standards for saffron corms. The inputs from progressive saffron growers were
particularly valuable, as they shared their experiences and challenges,
contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the ground realities.
DAO Kishtwar Khalid Bashir Zarger and Saffron Development
Officer Amarjeet Singh Sen provided insights into the technical aspects of
saffron cultivation and the benefits of using high-quality corms for better
yield and productivity. They also discussed the ongoing support measures and
resources available to farmers under the HADP.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the procurement rates
for saffron corms, ensuring they are fair and beneficial for both the growers
and the agriculture development goals of the region. The agreed-upon rates will
be implemented to facilitate the procurement process and support the expansion
of saffron cultivation in Kishtwar.
This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing
saffron production in Kishtwar, contributing to the overall agricultural
development of the region. The collaborative efforts of the CAO Office, field
staff, and progressive saffron growers underscore the commitment to achieving
sustainable agricultural growth and improving the livelihoods of local farmers.