Saffron is globally recognized as the most expensive spice in the world, heavily dependent on the cool, specific climate of the Kashmir valley. However, a groundbreaking agricultural experiment in Noida has proven that urban spaces can also cultivate this premium crop.
Ramesh Gera, a 65-year-old retired engineer, has successfully grown saffron inside a standard 100-square-foot room. His innovative, soil-less farming approach is redefining urban agriculture in the National Capital Region and offering a highly lucrative business model for city residents.
Ramesh Gera spent his career working as an electrical engineer with an additional degree in Operations Management. The inspiration for his post-retirement venture struck during a professional trip to South Korea in 2002.
During his six-month stay, he observed advanced soil-less farming techniques like hydroponics and indoor microgreen cultivation. Eager to stay active after retiring, he decided to bring these modern agricultural practices to his home in Noida. In 2017, he began transforming an empty room into an artificial agricultural haven, eventually focusing entirely on the highly profitable saffron crop.
Read more at Pulse of Noida
