JAMMU, April 5, 2026 : The government of Jammu and Kashmir has initiated a comprehensive strategy to tackle the growing threat posed by porcupines to saffron crops in Pampore, a region globally known for its premium saffron production.
Habitat Driving the Problem
Responding to a notice raised by NC MLA Hasnain Masoodi in the Assembly, Forest Minister Javed Ahmad Rana said that caves, crevices, hilly terrain, and overgrown lands near saffron fields provide ideal shelter for porcupines, leading to increased crop damage.
Key Measures Announced
The government has proposed a multi-layered action plan, including:
- Clearing caves, bushes, and undergrowth
- Installing deep mesh barriers (up to 1.5 metres underground)
- Protecting orchard trees with aluminium wrapping & coatings
- Planting natural repellents like iris, wormwood, and wild yam
- Using organic and olfactory deterrents such as naphthalene
- Deploying motion-activated lights and sound systems
Scientific & Field Monitoring
The Agriculture Department, in collaboration with the Saffron Research Station, Pampore, is documenting crop damage to develop long-term scientific solutions.
Ground-Level Action
Authorities have also:
- Set up a control room for man-animal conflict at Khrew
- Started night patrolling and live trapping using cages
- Launched awareness campaigns for farmers
Monkey Menace Also Addressed
On monkey intrusion in areas like Wahab Sahib, the government said awareness measures are underway, including distribution of firecrackers as deterrents.
Coordinated Approach
The government is preparing a time-bound, coordinated plan involving agriculture, wildlife, revenue departments, and local communities to ensure crop protection, habitat management, and long-term population control.
