Srinagar, March 4 -- National Conference MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, backed by MLA Kulgam Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami, raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the implementation of the ambitious scheme aimed at boosting saffron production in Kashmir. They urged the government to order a probe to ascertain if funds were misused or the project was mishandled.

Responding to the allegations, Agriculture Minister Javed Dar acknowledged the concerns and assured the House that the department was examining the matter. "If needed, a departmental inquiry will be ordered," he said, as per news agency KNT.

The National Saffron Mission was launched in 2010 by the then UPA government under the leadership of Manmohan Singh to revive saffron culti...