From Kashmir to Lambasingi: Andhra Pradesh's Ambitious Saffron Cultivation Plan
In a significant agricultural development, Andhra Pradesh is poised to embark on large-scale saffron cultivation in the picturesque region of Lambasingi, often referred to as the 'Kashmir of the South'. This initiative marks a strategic shift as saffron, traditionally cultivated primarily in Kashmir, finds a new potential home in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.
Government Announces PPP Model with Tribal Community Involvement
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has unveiled comprehensive plans to transform Lambasingi into a major saffron production center. The state government will implement a public-private-partnership (PPP) model to attract entrepreneurs, agricultural firms, and private companies to participate in this ambitious project.
Located approximately 90 kilometers from the scenic Araku Valley in the Alluri Sitharama Raju district, Lambasingi sits at an elevation of 1,000 meters in the Eastern Ghats. The region's climatic conditions have been identified as suitable for saffron cultivation, mirroring the environment of Kashmir where this precious spice thrives.
Incentives and Tribal Community Consent
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government would provide substantial incentives to kickstart saffron cultivation in Lambasingi. "With the participation of local tribal communities, private companies are permitted to grow saffron in Lambasingi extensively," Naidu stated, appealing to private investors to capitalize on this opportunity.
Government sources revealed that several companies have already approached the Naidu administration, seeking land leases along with necessary licenses and permissions for saffron cultivation. Crucially, the government conducted extensive consultations with tribal communities residing in the area and obtained their consent before making the decision to open land for saffron farming.
Comprehensive Support for Agricultural Transformation
Naidu assured that his government would provide all kinds of assistance to anyone interested in initiating saffron farming in Lambasingi, including land allotment and resource support. This announcement was part of broader discussions during a meeting focused on transforming Andhra Pradesh into the country's largest natural farming hub.
The Chief Minister directed officials to encourage farmers to reduce chemical fertilizer usage, enabling their products to meet international market standards. He stressed the importance of establishing certification and traceability facilities to ensure the quality of natural farming products, particularly for demanding markets like the European Union.
Parallel Initiatives: Cocoa City and Natural Farming Training
In addition to the saffron cultivation plan, Naidu announced parallel agricultural initiatives including cocoa cultivation and the development of a 'Cocoa City' spanning 500 acres in Eluru district. This integrated project will encompass cultivation, processing, and marketing at international standards.
Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu highlighted opportunities for intercropping in existing plantations of mango, cocoa, cashew, and coconut, urging officials to guide farmers in this direction. The government also plans to conduct statewide training programs on natural farming in collaboration with renowned agriculturist Subhash Palekar, credited with developing the zero-budget natural farming technique.
Strategic Market Expansion Goals
Naidu emphasized the need to significantly increase the share of Andhra Pradesh's agricultural products in both national and international markets. This comprehensive agricultural strategy aims to position the state as a leader in high-value crop production while promoting sustainable farming practices that appeal to global consumers.
The Lambasingi saffron cultivation project represents a landmark initiative that could potentially reduce India's dependence on Kashmir for saffron production while creating new economic opportunities in Andhra Pradesh's tribal regions through environmentally conscious agricultural practices.
