Empowers entrepreneurs, farmers across India

Pampore: A groundbreaking three-day national training programme on Indoor Saffron technology concluded triumphantly at the Advanced Research Station, SKUAST-Kashmir, Dusoo Pampore, located in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Monday. The event, meticulously designed to equip youth with the skills and knowledge required for entrepreneurship and employment, witnessed enthusiastic participation from delegates hailing from various states across the country.
Distinguished personalities, including Dr. Arshid Mughul, Associate Director Research at SKUAST-Kashmir, and Prof. Bashir Ahmad Alaie, Head of Advanced Research Station SKUAST-Kashmir Dusoo Pampore, shared their invaluable insights and expertise during the comprehensive training sessions. These sessions comprehensively covered a myriad of aspects related to indoor saffron cultivation techniques.
Participants from diverse corners of the nation actively engaged in interactive sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and knowledge-sharing activities. With a keen focus on fostering entrepreneurship and creating sustainable employment opportunities, the training programme adeptly equipped the participants with practical skills and innovative techniques essential for indoor saffron cultivation.
Dr. Arshid Mughul, expressing his contentment with the programme, underscored its pivotal role in nurturing agri-entrepreneurship among the youth. He emphasized, “This training programme is not merely about imparting knowledge; it is about instilling the spirit of entrepreneurship among the youth, paving the way for a sustainable future in agriculture.”
Prof. Bashir Ahmad Alaie highlighted the collaborative efforts undertaken by SKUAST-Kashmir to promote cutting-edge agricultural practices. He noted, “The enthusiastic participation of delegates from different states underscores the growing interest in modern agricultural techniques. We are fully committed to supporting and guiding the youth towards successful ventures in the field of agriculture.”
The training sessions delved into the intricacies of indoor saffron cultivation, a technology that holds immense promise for regions with temperate climates. The technology, pioneered by SKUAST-Kashmir, aims to revolutionize saffron cultivation, offering farmers and entrepreneurs an opportunity to harness the economic potential of this revered spice.
In addition to theoretical knowledge, the participants actively participated in practical demonstrations, gaining hands-on experience in indoor saffron cultivation techniques. The training not only focused on successful flower production but also addressed the challenges associated with corm production, a vital aspect of the saffron cultivation process.
Dr. Arshid Mughul revealed that the programme showcased presentations from various states, including Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, and Delhi. Representatives from these states displayed keen interest in understanding the nuances of indoor saffron cultivation. The technology, initially developed for the Kashmir valley, is currently undergoing refinement for broader applicability across different regions.
Prof. Bashir Ahmad Alaie elaborated on the challenges associated with corm production, a critical factor for the success of indoor saffron cultivation. He emphasized the importance of understanding the entire lifecycle of saffron corms and the technical aspects involved. Alaie emphasized, “While the benefits of this cultivation are evident in videos, it is imperative for farmers and entrepreneurs to grasp the technology’s intricacies. Only through a thorough understanding can one harness its full potential.”
The participants, comprising individuals from states such as Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Kolkata, expressed their eagerness to adopt indoor saffron cultivation in their respective regions. The enthusiasm displayed by these participants underlines the growing interest in this transformative agricultural technique.
As the event concluded on a positive note, the participants conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for the insightful sessions and valuable networking opportunities. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and newfound inspiration, these individuals are poised to contribute significantly to the agricultural landscape of their respective states.
The success of the national training programme on Indoor Saffron technology stands as a testament to SKUAST-Kashmir’s commitment to advancing agricultural practices and empowering the youth of the nation. Through initiatives like these, SKUAST-Kashmir continues to play a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural sector and fostering a prosperous future for farmers and entrepreneurs across India.

KR Desk