CSIR-IHBT Promoting Saffron Cultivation in Himachal
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)- Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) Palampur on September 28, 2022, conducted a one-day training-cum awareness program on “Improved Agro Technology of Saffron Production” at Baragaran, Multhan, District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. Shri Mulkh Raj Premi, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly, Baijnath Vidhan Sabha Constituency, Himachal Pradesh, was the Chief Guest on this occasion. In his address, Shri. Mulkh Raj Premi appreciated the efforts made by CSIR-IHBT for saffron cultivation and supporting farmers in Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized on the importance of the saffron crop and asked farmers to come forward for its cultivation. During the event, he also distributed the saffron corms among farmers. Several farmers of the villages (Baragaran, Nalhota, Kothikohad, Rajgundha, Ruling, Kukadgundha) including unemployed youth, Panchayat Officials and Agriculture Officials participated in the training. In addition, Bhikham Kapoor, BJP Mandal President, Ramita Devi, Mahila Mandal President of Baijnath were also present during the program. Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Director, CSIR-IHBT also shared his views with the farmers and informed them that the institute is closely associated with State Agriculture Department for saffron cultivation on a pilot scale in the region. The institute frequently organizes such training camps to upgrade the skills of Agriculture Officers and empower farmers to make India self-sufficient in producing high-value crops. In this training program, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-IHBT and Dr Renu Sharma, Subject Matter Specialist from State Agriculture Department
Multan, showcased farming techniques, including sowing, site selection, quality analysis, nutrient management, weed management, pest management, post harvest practices and storage of saffron.