Pampore: A delegation from SKUAST-Kashmir, headed by Senior Scientist Dr. Bashir Ahmad Alaie from the Research Station Seed and Spices Dusoo Pampore, visited the Saffron fields in Konibal Village of Pampore in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Friday. The Saffron fields have recently suffered significant damage from Parcopines over the past two weeks.
Dr. Bashir Ahmad Alaie engaged with local farmers during the visit, who apprised him of the extensive damage caused by the Parcopine attack to Saffron corms. This ongoing situation poses a considerable threat to Saffron cultivation, with potential implications for future production.
Farmers expressed concern that if the current trend continues, the enthusiasm for Saffron cultivation among farmers may decline further. They anticipate that the Parcopine attacks may persist for the next 2 or 3 months.
Bashir Ahmad Alaie explained to Kashmir Reader that during this period, Parcopines give birth to their offspring and require food for their young ones. Saffron corms become a primary food source for them due to the lack of other available options. Parcopines are particularly attracted to the sweetness of Saffron corms, making them vulnerable during this specific period.
Dr. Bashir Allaie emphasized that only the wildlife department has the authority to deter Parcopines from Saffron fields. He clarified that killing Parcopines is prohibited by wildlife acts, and neither SKUAST-Kashmir nor the Agriculture department can capture these creatures. According to wildlife department regulations, if Parcopines are captured, they must be released back into wildlife areas.
Farmers have proposed a reconsideration of the Wildlife Act, suggesting amendments to allow for the humane removal of Parcopines. They are open to exploring alternative methods to effectively control the damage occurring in the Saffron fields.
Concerned farmers have urgently appealed to the district administration to address the damage caused by Parcopines in the Saffron fields, urging swift action to protect crops and prevent further losses.
The issue of porcupine damage to Saffron fields was previously reported by Kashmir Reader, highlighting the extensive damage faced by farmers in Konibal Village. Farmers informed Kashmir Reader that porcupines were attacking Saffron fields during night hours, posing a significant threat to their crops.

BILAL HABIB