Kashmir is known for saffron production, but Ramesh Gera grows the world’s most expensive spice in a small room in Noida. Inspired by advanced farming techniques he learnt in South Korea, Ramesh began indoor saffron cultivation after retiring in 2017.
With a background in electrical engineering, Ramesh worked for multinational companies for over 30 years.
“In 2002, I travelled to South Korea for work and learnt about advanced farming techniques like hydroponics, microgreens, and indoor saffron cultivation,” Ramesh says.
Recognising a business opportunity in India’s reliance on Iranian saffron, especially as Kashmir meets only 30% of the country’s demand, Ramesh decided to take the plunge.
In 2017, he invested Rs 4 lakh to set up a 100-square-foot greenhouse in Sector 63, Noida, with an additional Rs 2 lakh spent on saffron seeds from Kashmir. He created a suitable environment to cultivate saffron within an artificial structure.
Maintaining the farm involves minimal costs — Rs 4,500 per month for electricity and Rs 8,000 per year for labour.
“Saffron has a good rate in the market,” Ramesh explains. With saffron selling for Rs 2.5-3.5 lakh per kg, Ramesh quickly saw substantial profits. “You can also earn up to Rs 6 lakh per kg if you tap into the export business,” he shares.
In addition to farming, Ramesh started the 'Akarshak Saffron Institute' in Noida, offering training to aspiring saffron farmers. His two-day online course, priced at Rs 12,000, has trained over 370 people, generating a monthly income of Rs 3.5 lakh.
Ramesh's successful saffron venture not only brings him significant profits but also helps others tap into the growing indoor saffron farming industry.