According to scientists, there is about 100 tonne saffron demand annually in the country while the production is just four tonne
Jaideep Rehan
Notably, saffron is amongst the world’s costliest spices. It is cultivated in some areas of Kishtwar and Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir state in India. CSIR-IHBT in Palampur is working on the project related to exploring the possibilities of saffron farming in different parts of India. Because of its unique fragrance and medicinal properties, saffron sells for about three lakh rupees per kilogram in the market. Besides used in food items, saffron has applications in the cure of many diseases. According to experts, there are more than 100 brands of saffron selling in the market. Surprisingly less than five percent of these brands were found genuine.
Rs. 1.5 Crore Project Approved
National Medicinal Plant Board has approved Rs. 1.5 crore project to encourage medicinal plants farming in the state. The state medicinal plant board will make farmers aware and encourage them to opt for medicinal plants farming. At present, medicinal plants farming is practised in nine districts of Himachal Pradesh with 37 varieties of medicinal plants declared as agricultural produce. The board has raised a demand to include 25 other varieties of medicinal plants in this list.
Business Brief
Renault Opens Bookings For SUV ‘Captur’
Speaking at the unveiling, Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations said, “Our growth strategy hinges strongly on launching products that cater to the volume and growing segments of the Indian automotive industry, representing evolving customer preferences. Over the last few years, SUV sales are growing exponentially, making it the fastest growing segment in India. Renault Captur is a globally successful premium SUV and is widely acclaimed for its stunning expressive design, premium & class-leading features and the high levels of personalization that can be achieved with this car. Renault Captur will further strengthen our position in the fast-growing SUV segment and will set new benchmarks with its global styling and unmatched road presence.”