Kashmir is world-renowned for producing saffron, referred to as 'Red Gold.' It is the only region in India where saffron cultivation takes place. Saffron cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir primarily takes place across four districts, Pulwama, Budgam, Srinagar, and Kishtwar, of which 86% is grown in Pampore.
To raise awareness of the value of Kashmiri saffron and meet rising demand, Punjab-based siblings Aastika Narula and Shanker Narula began cultivating Kashmiri saffron in-house under controlled conditions. They launched the venture under the brand name Grow Grower in 2024. Initially mentored by their father, Mr Vikas Narula, the sibling founders cultivated around 1.3 kg of saffron in their first indoor farming season (2024-25).
"Basically, none of us comes from an agricultural background; my sister and I both have degrees in computer applications and political science, so this venture was actually our father's idea, born out of his interest in how modern technology can transform traditional sectors," Shanker tells Startup Pedia in an exclusive interview.
"With our indoor aeroponics setup, we are essentially trying to 'create Kashmir' in the middle of Punjab by manually controlling every factor from temperature and humidity to carbon dioxide levels and airflow to match the high-altitude environment," Shanker says.
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