Nagpur Innovators Thrive: Saffron Farming in Extreme Heat Yields Rs 50 Lakh Profit

A Nagpur couple has cultivated saffron, which is the most expensive spice in the world, without soil and water in one of India's hottest cities. Akshay Holey and Divya Lohakare Holey employ ingenious aeroponic techniques to duplicate the climatic conditions of Kashmir in 400 square feet, leading to an annual earning of Rs 50 lakh. Begun in 2020 as a small trial on the terrace, now the couple grows saffron across 480 square feet. The couple has trained 150 people, of whom 29 have set up their own units. The saffron is graded by the Saffron Institute of Kashmir and sells for Rs 630 a gram. This ingenious technique marries traditional farming with technology and exists to change lives and inspire others to dream without boundaries.

 

Source: The Times of India