In Udupi, two former IT professionals have embraced agriculture, cultivating saffron in Bailoor for the second consecutive year. Ananthajith Tantry and Akshath BK, who transitioned from the tech industry after a decade, returned to their hometown in 2017 to enhance Tantry’s family coconut plantation. Inspired by successful saffron farming in Pune and Belagavi, they sought training from Rajath in Belagavi on the nuances of saffron cultivation.
Tantry shared with TOI that maintaining a controlled temperature is crucial for saffron growth. They are among the few saffron cultivators in Karnataka, with their inaugural harvest last year yielding approximately 37 grams from 50 kg of bulbs. With high-grade saffron priced around Rs 4 lakh per kg, the potential for profit is significant.
Traditionally grown in Jammu and Kashmir, Tantry and Akshath have adapted aeroponic methods, cultivating saffron in a controlled, humid environment without soil. Due to the region’s humidity, they have equipped their 180-square-foot growing room with air conditioning and chillers. Tantry emphasized that while Kashmir’s quality testing is recognized, their saffron’s aroma and appearance closely match that of the region.
After a year dedicated to research and development, they are now more confident in their venture. Their growing room can accommodate 200 kg of bulbs, potentially producing around one kilogram of saffron, with nutrient delivery managed through cocoa peat. To facilitate commercial sales, they co-founded a company named 6M, symbolizing the six-month cultivation cycle. The flowering season typically begins around Navaratri in October, marking a joyful moment for the duo as they witnessed their saffron bloom for the first time last year.
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