Kashmiri saffron joined the likes of Darjeeling tea, the Alappuzha green cardamom, black rice from Manipur and the Guntur chilli in getting the Geographical Indication tag.
According to Article 22( I) of the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement (TRIPS), GI tags are “indications which identify a good as originating in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographic origin.”
Kashmir saffron, grown in Pampore at an altitude of 1600 metres, with its long strands and deep colour, clearly fulfilled the criterion. The Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor, G.C. Murmu, has hailed this as a “momentous decision”, one which is likely to put the spice on the world map.
According to recent reports, saffron production has undergone a steep decline in recent years. With production in decline and concerns of adulteration looming large, the prestigious GI could restore saffron to its former glory. This also helps in infusing a sense of confidence in the consumer regarding the authenticity of the produce.
Saffrons are largely produced in countries like Spain and Iran, however Kashmir saffron is a high-grade variety.
