Pulwama, Nov 17 : The Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department of Kashmir has initiated a trial for cultivating black cumin, locally known as Kala Zeera, in the Ladhoo area of Pampore in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
This initiative aims to boost farmers’ income by intercropping black cumin with saffron, another high-value cash crop traditionally grown in the area.
The tubers for the trial have been sourced from SKUAST-K’s Advanced Research Station for Saffron and Seed Spices in Dusso, Pampore, which has been successfully cultivating black cumin for several years.
The perennial herb, known for its tuberous roots, is considered a niche crop like saffron and the aromatic rice variety Muskbudji.
Agriculture Extension Officer Pampore, Ishtiyaq Ahmad, highlighted the potential benefits of intercropping.
“Farmers in our area are already engaged in saffron cultivation. Introducing black cumin alongside will allow them to maximize land utility and potentially double their income,” he said.
Ahmad added that around 900 tubers of two black cumin varieties have been procured, covering an area of 1.5 kanals on a trial basis.
“Our analysis suggests that one kanal of black cumin can yield approximately 14 kilograms, which sells in the market for about ₹70,000,” he noted.
The department plans to expand cultivation in the future and provide farmers with the necessary training and monitoring support.
“We aim to multiply the crop for the benefit of farmers. Our department is dedicated to promoting this high-value niche crop,” Ahmad said.
The trial marks a significant step in diversifying agricultural practices in the saffron-growing belt, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for farmers in the region.
