JKSSB Written 2018
Answer & Explanation
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Correct Answer:
Option B —
Kashmir valley
Specifically, the Pampore region in the Pulwama district is often referred to as the "Saffron Town of Kashmir" because it produces the bulk of the crop.Why the Kashmir Valley?
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is a temperamental plant that requires very specific climatic and soil conditions, which the Kashmir Valley provides in spades:
The Soil (Karewas): Saffron thrives in the unique lacustrine (lake-derived) soil deposits known as Karewas. These are flat-topped mounds found in the valley that are rich in nutrients and provide excellent drainage.
Altitude: It grows best at an altitude of about 1,600 to 1,800 meters above sea level.
Climate: The crop needs a specific mix of cold winters and dry, sunny summers.
Key Facts About J&K Saffron GI Tag:
In 2020, Kashmir Saffron was granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which helps protect its identity in the global market and prevents the sale of inferior adulterated versions.
Quality: Kashmiri saffron is world-renowned for its high levels of crocin (which gives it color), safranal (aroma), and picrocrocin (bitterness). It is darker and more potent than Iranian or Spanish varieties.
The "Red Gold": It is the most expensive spice in the world because it is labor-intensive; it takes roughly 75,000 flowers to produce just one pound (about 450 grams) of dry saffron.
Why the other options are incorrect:
Leh (A): While it has the altitude, the climate is too arid and cold (high-altitude desert) for traditional saffron cultivation.
Jammu (C): Generally too warm; however, some small-scale trials have been attempted in higher reaches like Kishtwar, but it doesn't compare to the Valley's output.
Suru Valley (D): Located in Ladakh, it is beautiful but lacks the specific "Karewa" soil profile required for large-scale production.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.