Srinagar, August 21 (TNA) Young farmers in Kashmir are increasingly turning government agriculture schemes into avenues for self-employment and entrepreneurship, with modern farming emerging as a potential livelihood option for educated and unemployed youth.
One such example is Rafiq Ahmad of Pampore, who has utilised assistance under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to establish two polyhouses and develop a modern vegetable-growing enterprise.
With financial assistance under HADP, Ahmad established the two polyhouses at a total cost of around Rs 41 lakh, with 95% subsidy support under the scheme. The facilities have enabled him to grow vegetables throughout the year, irrespective of seasonal conditions.
Inside the polyhouses, Ahmad cultivates traditional and exotic vegetables, including different hybrid varieties. He is currently growing around eight varieties of pumpkin, besides cucumber and other vegetables. The produce is being marketed at good prices, providing him with a sustainable source of income.
The venture has also created employment opportunities for around 10 people, making Ahmad a job creator in his locality. Ahmad urged young people to explore government-supported schemes instead of depending solely on government jobs. He said agriculture, when combined with modern technology and government support, can provide sustainable livelihoods and enable young entrepreneurs to create employment for others.
“Instead of waiting for government jobs, youth should come forward and take advantage of various government schemes. Such initiatives can help them become self-reliant and also enable them to employ others,” Ahmad said.
Agriculture Extension Officer, Pampore, Mir Ashiq Hussain, said the Agriculture Department had introduced several schemes aimed at empowering young people and promoting entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector. He said HADP was among the important programmes through which young farmers were receiving financial assistance, technical guidance and support to establish modern agricultural enterprises.
“The department is working to empower youth through different schemes. Besides providing financial assistance, we also provide training and handholding support so that young farmers can successfully establish and manage their ventures and become self-reliant,” Hussain said.
Ahmad’s venture highlights how government support, modern agricultural practices and entrepreneurship can turn farming into a source of income and employment, while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for youth in Kashmir.