Spices Board exploring feasibility of indoor saffron farming in Kerala
Board submits a proposal to Agriculture department to promote indoor saffron farming
The Spices Board is investigating the potential of indoor saffron cultivation in Kerala, driven by increasing demand in the open market. This initiative has been proposed to the Kerala Agriculture department, with the board's chairperson, Sangeetha Viswanathan, engaging in discussions with Agriculture Minister T. Sidhique. Ms. Viswanathan emphasized the state's potential for indoor saffron farming and the board's capabilities to market it, citing its high market demand.
She also urged the Agriculture department to curb excessive pesticide use on cardamom plantations and ensure pesticide-free produce to meet international export standards. The board further requested the state government to expedite the issuance of Cardamom Registration (CR) certificates to farmers, which are necessary for accessing financial aid and benefits under various Union government assistance programs.
Ms. Viswanathan highlighted the need for sustainable infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change, urging the state to support mist irrigation systems, community irrigation projects, rainwater harvesting, and climate-resilient farming initiatives.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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