Revolutionizing Saffron Farming: The Inspiring Story of Aastika and Shankar Narula
Meet Aastika and Shankar Narula, two siblings revolutionizing saffron farming in Punjab with innovative indoor farming techniques. Their inspiring story showcases determination, innovation, and sustainability.
Image Credit: 30 stades
In a world where traditional career paths often take precedence, it’s refreshing to come across young entrepreneurs who dare to challenge the status quo. Meet Aastika and Shankar Narula, two siblings from Ludhiana, Punjab, who are making waves in the agriculture sector with their innovative approach to saffron farming.
A Humble Beginning
Aastika, 24, a humanities graduate from Delhi University, and Shankar, 22, an MBA student, embarked on their saffron journey in July 2024. With the support of their father, they invested ₹50 lakh in setting up a 616 sq. ft. indoor farming facility near their home. Their goal was to capitalize on the growing demand for saffron, a spice highly prized for its unique flavor and medicinal properties.
Innovative Techniques
The siblings chose aeroponics, a soil-free farming method, to cultivate saffron. They sourced high-quality saffron bulbs from Pampore, Kashmir, and created a controlled environment using insulated rooms, grow lights, LED lights, humidifiers, and exhaust fans. This innovative approach allowed them to replicate the ideal climate for saffron, resulting in a remarkable harvest within just seven weeks.
A Successful Harvest
Aastika and Shankar’s hard work paid off as they produced 1.3 kg of saffron threads, which they sold for ₹800 per gram (₹8 lakh per kg) through social media and word of mouth. Their customers, based in India, Australia, and Canada, appreciated the high quality of their saffron.
Exploring New Avenues
The siblings are not resting on their laurels. They are exploring new ways to utilize other parts of the saffron flower, such as using petals for perfumes and yellow stigmas for food coloring. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Aastika and Shankar prepare for their next harvest in October-November 2025, they are excited about the prospects of their venture. Their story serves as a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and determination.
Key Takeaways:
- Innovation and determination can lead to remarkable success in unconventional fields.
- Aeroponics and indoor farming can be game-changers in agriculture.
- Exploring new avenues and being sustainable are essential for long-term success.
