Ladakh is conducting an experiment to introduce saffron farming on a large scale, building on the success of high-altitude Lilium cultivation in the Union Territory.
"I am pleased to announce an ambitious experiment of introducing saffron cultivation to Ladakh, for the very first time, on a large scale," Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena said on Friday in a post on X.
Saxena showcased pictures of saffron bulb sowing activity led by him against the backdrop of rock-crafted hills.
He said 800 kg, comprising around 90,000 premium Iranian saffron corms, had been sown, which are suited to Ladakh's high-altitude agro-climatic conditions.
The saffron cultivation is being undertaken over 4,000 square metres of previously barren land at Spituk Pharka in Leh, which has been rejuvenated and transformed under Project Him Sarovar, he said.
Saxena said the initiative was driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of agricultural diversification aimed at enhancing farmers' financial sustainability and empowerment.
The pioneering project has the potential to strengthen the local economy and create new sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers, youth and self-help groups, he added.