Source: Business Line
Context: Kashmir’s saffron crop, a highly prized spice, is severely affected by prolonged dry spells and climate change.
The saffron spice, known as kong in Kashmiri, zaffran in Urdu, and kesar in Hindi, is extracted from the stigma of the saffron flower (Crocus sativus L).
Highly valued, Kashmiri kesar sells for around Rs 3 lakhs per kilogram. Obtaining just one gram of kesar requires about 160-180 flowers, making its production labour-intensive.
