Mohsin Khan

Awantipora, Sep 11 (KNS): Awantipora Police have foiled an alleged attempt to transport around 1.8 quintals of saffron corms outside Kashmir following information regarding their unauthorised sale and movement.

Officials said the vehicle carrying the saffron corms was intercepted by Police Station Pampore at a naka while the consignment was allegedly being transported outside the region.

The seized saffron corms were subsequently handed over to officials of the Agriculture Department for verification and further necessary action.

The interception followed an investigation into the alleged unauthorised sale and proposed transportation of saffron corms. During the investigation, several instances of saffron corms being offered for sale and arrangements being made for their transportation were reportedly documented.

The information gathered during the investigation was shared with the concerned police authorities, following which Awantipora Police acted swiftly and intercepted the consignment.

Saffron growers and stakeholders have welcomed the action, saying that the seizure of such a large quantity highlights the need for strict monitoring to prevent the unauthorised movement of saffron planting material outside Kashmir.

Saffron corms are the key planting material used for saffron cultivation and their movement outside the region is subject to applicable restrictions and government directions.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Saffron growers Riyaz Ahmad Dar of Pampore and Firdous Mir appreciated the prompt action by Awantipora Police and called for continued monitoring of traders, intermediaries, online platforms and transportation channels.

“The interception of such a large quantity is a welcome step. There is a need for continuous surveillance and strict enforcement so that saffron planting material is not moved outside the region through unauthorised channels,” they said.

The investigation has also highlighted the possible use of online platforms and logistics networks for the sale and transportation of saffron corms. However, the role of any particular company, online marketplace or logistics operator would require independent verification by the competent authorities before any responsibility is fixed.

The Agriculture Department is expected to examine the seized consignment, verify its source and documentation, and take action under the applicable laws, rules and government directions.

The latest action has once again underlined the importance of coordination between law-enforcement agencies, the Agriculture Department and other stakeholders to protect Kashmir's saffron sector and prevent unauthorised movement of its valuable planting material. (KNS)