Kashmir Saffron

In a remarkable gesture, India has presented gift hampers to the leaders of the G20 nations, containing the world-renowned Kashmir saffron. This highly sought-after spice, known as “Zafran” or “Kesar,” possesses unique characteristics and a rich history that make it a valuable offering.

Contents

Definitions and Unique Characteristics

Zafran or Kesar

Kashmir saffron, locally referred to as “Zafran” or “Kesar,” is a spice celebrated for its culinary uses and medicinal value. It stands out due to its extraordinary characteristics:

Longer and thicker stigmas
Natural deep-red color
High aroma
Bitter flavor
Chemical-free processing
Rich in components like crocin (coloring strength), safranal (flavor), and picrocrocin (bitterness).

Types of Kashmir Saffron

Lachha Saffron: In this variety, stigmas are separated and dried without processing.
Mongra Saffron: Stigmas are detached and dried in the sun, following traditional methods.
Guchhi Saffron: Similar to Lachha, but with packaging differences – stigmas are bundled with cloth thread, whereas Lachha is packed loosely in air-tight containers.

Significance

Economic Value

Kashmir saffron is considered one of the world’s most expensive spices, with prices soaring from ₹2 lakh/kg to ₹3 lakh/kg. Currently, it is valued at ₹3,250 for 10 gm, equivalent to the price of 47 gm of silver.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

Kashmir saffron holds the distinction of being the only GI-tagged saffron globally. Its cultivation at altitudes ranging from 1,600 m to 1,800 m above mean sea level (AMSL) in the Karewa highlands of Jammu and Kashmir contributes to its unique qualities.

How and Where

Cultivation Process

The cultivation of Kashmir saffron is labor-intensive and requires meticulous hand-harvesting. Thousands of saffron flowers are needed to produce just one ounce of saffron, with each flower containing three crimson stigmas.

Geographical Origin

Kashmir saffron is primarily cultivated in specific regions of Kashmir, including Pulwama, Budgam, Kishtwar, and Srinagar, all of which contribute to the spice’s distinct flavor and aroma.

Facts

Global Production

While Iran is the largest producer of saffron globally, India is a close competitor, with Kashmir saffron being highly sought after for its quality.

Historical Introduction

The history of saffron in Kashmir dates back to around the 1st Century BCE when Central Asian immigrants introduced its cultivation. Ancient Sanskrit references even mention saffron as “bahukam.”

Price Surge Reason

The acknowledgment of Kashmir saffron by the Indian government and its subsequent presentation as a diplomatic gift to G20 leaders has contributed to the recent surge in its price, highlighting its value on the global stage.