Srinagar, Nov 11: The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced plans to formulate a comprehensive strategy for reviving saffron cultivation in Kashmir after acknowledging declining production and shortcomings in the implementation of the National Saffron Mission.

Agriculture Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar said the government would review the reasons behind the mission's failure to achieve its intended objectives and prepare a fresh revival roadmap in consultation with scientists, farmers and elected representatives.
"The concerned MLA will be taken on board along with the farmers," Dar told reporters in Srinagar.
His remarks came days after National Conference MLA from Pampore, Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi, questioned Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the lack of action on the declining saffron production despite an investment of Rs 411 crore under the National Saffron Mission.
Masoodi had urged the government to review the mission's performance and introduce a comprehensive revival programme to safeguard the livelihoods of saffron growers.
He pointed out that 138 borewells constructed under the mission had reportedly become defunct, raising concerns over the utilisation of funds and the failure of irrigation infrastructure.
Acknowledging the shortcomings, Dar said the management of borewells had been a major challenge, as some facilities were designed to serve large areas, making their operation and maintenance difficult.
The minister said the government would involve scientists from SKUAST and explore measures under the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP), supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), to improve agricultural productivity and revive saffron cultivation.
He also expressed concern over farmers shifting away from saffron cultivation towards other crops, stressing the need for an effective strategy to restore confidence among growers.
Dar said the proposed plan would focus on addressing existing shortcomings, improving irrigation facilities and involving farmers in decisions concerning the future of Kashmir's traditional saffron industry.