Srinagar, Nov. 9 -- CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has voiced concern over a continuous decline in saffron production in Jammu and Kashmir, urging the administration to take immediate steps to support growers and safeguard the heritage crop.

In a statement issued, Tarigami said that this year's low output has caused distress among thousands of families whose livelihoods depend on saffron.

MLA Kulgam said that inadequate irrigation remains one of the major challenges. The Karewas of Pampore, considered the main saffron growing region, continue to depend heavily on rainfall. The prolonged dry spell this season, lack of irrigation, and the poor quality of available corms have collectively contributed to the decline....