MLAs Accuse ₹401 Crore Saffron Mission of Irregularities

Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir): Allegations of irregularities in the ₹401 crore National Saffron Mission (NSM) shook the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Tuesday, with legislators demanding a thorough investigation into the matter.

National Conference MLA from Pampore, Hasnain Masoodi, supported by Kulgam MLA Muhammad Yusuf Tarigami, expressed concern over alleged discrepancies in the implementation of the ambitious scheme aimed at promoting saffron cultivation in Kashmir. They urged the government to initiate an inquiry to determine whether the funds were misused or if the project was mismanaged.

Responding to the allegations, Agriculture Minister Javed Dar acknowledged the concerns and assured the House that the department was investigating the matter. He stated that a departmental probe would be ordered if necessary.

The National Saffron Mission was launched in 2010 under the then-UPA government led by Manmohan Singh to revive saffron farming in Kashmir. The multi-crore initiative aimed to adopt modern techniques, improve irrigation facilities, and boost overall saffron production. However, reports of mismanagement of funds and failure to achieve the desired results have raised doubts about the project’s implementation.