Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Nov 2: The Indian International Kashmir Saffron Trade Centre (IIKSTC) in the Dusoo area of Pampore is helping saffron growers process their produce more efficiently, while also providing GI tagging and Grade Certification.
The centre supports growers not only post-harvest but also enables them to sell saffron through e-auction and e-trading platforms set up to enhance market access.
Dr. Khursheed Ahmad, Incharge at IIKSTC, spoke to ‘Excelsior’ about the services offered, explaining that manual saffron processing, once done at home, is now handled with advanced scientific technology at the centre.
“The technology we use, maintains the unique qualities of Kashmiri saffron, while also reducing drying time from the typical three days at home to just 30 minutes here, saving growers valuable time,” he said.
According to Dr. Khursheed, the centre has received positive feedback, and growers have been bringing their produce for processing over the past week.
“After the flowers are plucked, multiple steps are required before saffron is ready for sale. We handle all these processes under one roof, including drying with advanced vaccum dryers, which significantly reduces drying time,” he added.
The centre’s operators confirmed that using advanced technology preserves the quality and properties of Kashmiri saffron. “Whether it’s aroma, color, or taste, these qualities remain intact. Under home conditions, they were often compromised,” they noted.
Once processed, growers can have their saffron tested at the centre’s NABL-accredited laboratory, which then enables Grade Certification and GI Tagging.
“With GI Tagging and Grade Certification, growers receive 70-80% higher prices on an average in the market,” Dr. Khursheed said.
These services-grading and tagging-are available to growers who bring their post-harvest produce to the centre. The centre also offers e-auction and e-trading facilities, helping growers connect with traders nationwide.
“With these facilities, we empower growers to sell their produce here directly, though they can sell independently if preferred. However, linking with traders across the country often brings better prices,” he added, urging the growers to use the facility for speedy processing and better prices.
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