UPDATED: Nov 1, 2026 15:08 ISTSaffron harvesting has commenced in Kashmir Valley as the final crop cycle of the year gets underway in November. Known globally for premium quality, Kashmiri saffron is witnessing surge in domestic and international demand amid supply disruptions from Iran.
However, local cultivation faces challenges due to rampant construction in rural belts shrinking farmland, compounded by climate change impacts. To counter this, the government's Mission Saffron provides artificial spray and irrigation facilities.
In Pampore, blooming fields have brought optimism among farmers, who noted timely moisture and urged peers to utilize the spice park for GI-tagged produce fetching 250 to 350 rupees per gram. Growers emphasized the dual benefits of natural chemical-free farming and agro-tourism along the national highway, which continues to attract visiting tourists.
Read MoreVIDEOS FROM OTHER SECTIONSLATEST VIDEOSRegime Change Call Sparks Row; PM Slams Obstructionist OppositionA political face-off has intensified following remarks by Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut, who asserted that a revolution is underway and a regime change is taking place. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering in Gujarat, countering opposition narratives and allegations.
The Prime Minister stated that while the country was finding solutions to external challenges, certain forces within had attempted to create instability by spreading falsehoods and rumours. He emphasised that Sardar Patel and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar established the constitutional framework of both ruling and opposition sides, noting that the duty in a democracy is to oppose policies.
However, he criticised the opposition for turning into an obstructionist force that stalls national development.INDIA Bloc Ramlila Maidan Protest, Rahul-Akhilesh Optics and Opposition ResurgenceA protest procession led by the INDIA bloc toward Ramlila Maidan showcased a united opposition, featuring notable optics including media trucks and joint appearances by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Political analyst Ashutosh noted that the display highlighted a resurgent Congress and the emergence of Rahul Gandhi in pole position within the opposition.
He stated that the mobilization reflected democracy asserting itself on the streets and putting pressure on the government and the Election Commission regarding concerns over electoral processes. Addressing debates over electoral success versus liberal democracy, the discussion touched on public demonstrations keeping cadres energized, moving beyond past reservations, and challenging the ruling party through sustained street activism.Massive Turnout at Ramlila Maidan as Opposition Rally Demands Voting RightsA massive crowd gathered at New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan as opposition parties and supporters assembled for the 'Vote Bachao Desh Bachao' demonstration.
Cadres and leaders from various political parties, including the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, converged in large numbers, pushing the venue beyond its regular capacity of 50,000 to 75,000 people and causing spillover onto adjoining central Delhi roads. Leaders addressing the gathering emphasised the need to protect constitutional voting rights, voicing strong objections to recent actions by the Election Commission and issues surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
The protest followed a mock public impeachment conducted by the alliance against the Chief Election Commissioner. Opposition figures noted that the movement has widened beyond political groups to include civil society members and students advocating for democratic accountability.INDIA Bloc Ramlila Rally Draws Huge Crowds; BJP Stages Counter-ProtestsThe INDIA bloc organised a massive rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan, witnessing a large turnout of cadre and supporters from various parties, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party, and the Left.
Leaders and party workers arrived in large contingents from states like Haryana and Rajasthan, displaying party flags and filling the venue to capacity. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party mounted counter-protests across multiple locations, including Rohtak, Shimla, and Lucknow, addressing issues concerning the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
Amid BJP allegations regarding potential disruptions to local trade and markets, alliance members countered that visiting supporters would bolster local businesses in Chandni Chowk ahead of festive events. Large banners and cutouts highlighted Rahul Gandhi and the Congress as central to the coalition's unity.