Qualitative Analysis of Factors Influencing the Decline of Saffron (Crocus sativus) Cultivation in the Valley of Kashmir, India: Need of Regaining its Legacy

Kashmir is world famous for the cultivation of rich and quality saffron (Crocus sativus) and is one of the major saffron producing areas of the world. However, there has been decline in the production of saffron over the years and the current study is aimed at studying factors which has negative impact on the production and cultivation of saffron (Crocus sativus) in Kashmir. To examine the factors which has negative influence on the declining of saffron industry in Kashmir, the current study used descriptive qualitative research design to answer this research question. The researchers identified the three major saffron producing villages (Dusso, Chandhara and Lethpora) wherein major and experienced 36 saffron growers were selected using purposive sampling technique the data of the growers was retrieved from the records of Revenue and Agriculture Departments. Key-Informant interview schedule was used during the interviews which was developed and validated by two independent experts working in agriculture field. Thematic analysis was carried and colour coding of the statements were done for the themes by the researchers which were reviewed by two supervisors. The findings of the study indicate that there are various factors which are responsible for the declining of the saffron industry in Kashmir. The findings suggest that climate changes, irrigation facilities, marketing, awareness and training about cultivation, availability of unexperienced labour force, illegal construction on saffron land, clandestine of cheap saffron, adulteration, and non-availability of good quality saffron corms were the major factors found in the study responsible for declining of saffron cultivation in Kashmir and the conversion of saffron land into commercial purposes. The study has implication for the future research focusing on the factors and coming up with grower friendly interventions to protect this cash crop from declining.