Overview
- Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University produced saffron flowers in a 200 sq. ft. aeroponic facility at Morije Horticultural College after about two months of cultivation.
- Researchers replicated Kashmir-like conditions using industrial ACs for cold shocks, humidifiers at 75–80% humidity, multi‑spectrum grow lights near 500 lux, HEPA filtration and controlled CO2.
- Saffron bulbs sourced from Kashmir were grown on vertical racks in an app‑controlled system that delivers nutrients as mist and requires minimal labour.
- The team reports satisfactory yields and chemical profiles, with flowers now being sent for laboratory grading to establish quality.
- NABARD supported the pilot, and the university plans to document protocols, set up model labs and offer training to farmers in Telangana if results are validated.