The two brothers from Muktsar city, without any prior farming experience, have ventured into saffron cultivation and that too in a room of their own house. Raghav Gumber, a 25-year-old law graduate, and Somil Gumber, a 31-year-old banker, initiated saffron cultivation last year but achieved success in their second attempt this year. Saffron, commonly known as one of the most expensive spices, is typically grown in sub-zero climatic conditions, particularly in Kashmir.
According to a report by The Tribune, Raghav said, "Neither I nor my brother had any experience in farming. We come from business families. Doing something unique was our dream. That's when the idea of starting saffron cultivation came to our minds. We spent approximately 6 lakh rupees on setting up a 'lab,' which is a cabin of 10x10 feet with a temperature control system. Additionally, we purchased some wooden trays and iron racks. The saffron cultivation season starts in late July, and harvesting begins in November."
Raghav mentioned, "Last year, we purchased saffron seeds from Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir. However, we did not succeed in our first attempt. This year, we tried saffron cultivation again. We bought around 2.5 quintals of seeds at the rate of approximately 600 rupees per kilogram and started indoor cultivation. This involves only automated equipment to control temperature, humidity, and light. This soilless farming technique is known as aeroponics. So far, we have harvested around 100-125 grams of saffron, and we expect a total yield of 300-350 grams. Discussions are underway with a company to sell the produce." Kuljeet Singh, Assistant Director, Horticulture, Muktsar district, commented, "I am unfamiliar with saffron cultivation trials in Muktsar. PAU has not recommended its cultivation in our state. It is good to know that two of them have achieved success in their experiment.
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