Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura today urged the people associated with tourism industry to come forward and help the government in the promotion of Kashmir Saffron.Chairing a meeting with people associated with hotel industry, representatives of houseboat association and other tourism players, the Minister said that they can play an important role in the promotion of Kashmir Saffron.He said that Kashmir saffron is facing huge challenge and the tourism industry can play a pivotal role to offset the same and help in its promotion.Hanjura said that the Department has taken a slew of initiatives for the promotion of local saffron. He said that under Saffron Mission programme around Rs 450 crore are being spent on the promotion of saffron and increasing its production. The Minister also said that Spice Park located at Dussu Pampore would soon be inaugurated and would provide better packing, marketing and other facilities to the Saffron growers.On the occasion, the tourism players put forward suggestions for improving the overall functioning of the Department and for better implantation of various development schemes. The Minister said that the suggestions would be included in decision-making process of the Department.During the meeting, the people associated with tourism industry also raised several issues regarding the promotion of Kashmir saffron. They also assured of their support for the promotion of local saffron.Principal Secretary Agriculture Production Department, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Director Tourism, other officers of Agriculture Department also attended the meeting.