Telangana Makes History: Saffron Successfully Grown with Aeroponic Tech

Saffron Cultivation Becomes a Reality in Telangana: Horticulture University Achieves Breakthrough with Aeroponic Technology

Hyderabad, November 13 (VGlobe News): In a landmark scientific feat, the Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University has successfully demonstrated that saffron—the world’s most expensive and climate-sensitive spice—can be grown in Telangana using advanced aeroponic technology. Traditionally cultivated only in the cold, high-altitude valleys of Kashmir, saffron is now blossoming in the plains of Telangana, marking a revolutionary step for Indian horticulture.

The pilot project, financially supported by NABARD, was carried out at the College of Horticulture in Mojarla, Wanaparthy district. Within just two months of experimentation, scientists achieved vibrant saffron flowering inside a 200-square-foot aeroponic model lab specially designed for the study.

Creating Kashmir Inside Telangana

The research team, led by Professor Dr. Pidigam Saidaya, used saffron corms imported from Kashmir and recreated the exact environmental conditions required for saffron growth. Using fully automated systems, the lab simulated:

• Day–night temperature variations
• Humidity controls
• Sunlight and light intensity
• CO₂ levels
• Moisture and nutrient misting cycles

All environmental parameters were precisely regulated through a mobile-app-based system, enabling complete soilless cultivation in a controlled environment. This artificial replication of Kashmir’s climate formed the backbone of the project’s success.

High-Quality Yield Proves Potential

The saffron corms responded exceptionally well to aeroponic conditions. Researchers reported not just successful germination, but robust growth and flowering, with both yield and quality matching high standards. The achievement has opened new avenues for growing high-value crops in climates previously considered unsuitable.

University Hails Breakthrough

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Danda Raji Reddy praised the team’s efforts and emphasized the transformative potential of the research.

“Our university constantly promotes innovative horticultural technologies for Telangana farmers. On a pilot basis, we have successfully produced Kashmiri saffron in Telangana. Soon, we will share the technical details with farmers statewide. If required, we will establish regional saffron model labs and conduct hands-on training,” he said.

NABARD to Support Farmer Training

NABARD Telangana Chief General Manager B. Uday Bhaskar lauded the achievement and underscored its significance for rural livelihood development.

“We support new technologies that enhance farmers’ incomes. The successful aeroponic cultivation of saffron in Telangana is highly encouraging. We will conduct training programs for farmers and rural youth interested in saffron farming. This initiative can substantially improve rural income opportunities,” he noted.

Lead Researcher Offers Open Access to Knowledge

Project lead Prof. Pidigam Saidaya stated that the success was made possible by NABARD’s support and the university’s scientific expertise.

“We artificially recreated Kashmir’s climate and harvested saffron of excellent quality. We are ready to provide all technical information free of cost to anyone who wishes to adopt this technology,” he said.

A New Horizon for Telangana Farmers

The aeroponic method provides several benefits, including:

• Minimal labor requirement
• High-quality, chemical-free produce
• Efficient use of space
• Year-round production potential

These factors have already sparked enthusiasm among farmers, agri-startups, and rural entrepreneurs.

Future Plans

The Horticultural University is gearing up to roll out a comprehensive saffron cultivation training program. There are also plans to set up region-specific model labs across Telangana to help farmers explore saffron cultivation as a profitable venture.

A Milestone for Telangana Agriculture

This breakthrough not only sets a new benchmark in horticultural research but also positions Telangana as an emerging hub for premium saffron production. With the right support, experts believe the state could soon become a leading producer of high-value saffron, opening doors to fresh agricultural income streams and boosting the rural economy.