PAMPORE, August 24: For Rafiq Rasool of Meej, Pampore, government support under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) has transformed his approach to farming into a modern enterprise, helping him create a sustainable livelihood while generating employment for others.
Rasool has established two polyhouses at a total cost of around ₹41 lakh, with 95 per cent subsidy support under HADP. The facilities have enabled him to cultivate vegetables throughout the year, irrespective of seasonal conditions.
Inside the polyhouses, Rasool grows a mix of traditional and exotic vegetables, including several hybrid varieties. At present, he is cultivating 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.
His venture has also created employment opportunities for around 10 people, making Rasool not only a beneficiary of a government scheme but also a job creator in his locality.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Rasool urged young people to explore government-supported schemes rather than depend solely on government jobs.
“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 provide employment to others,” he said.
Agriculture Extension Officer, Pampore, Mir Ashiq Hussain, said the Agriculture Department had introduced several schemes aimed at empowering youth 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.
Rasool’s journey from an agriculture scheme beneficiary to a job provider demonstrates how government support, modern farming practices and entrepreneurial initiative can turn agriculture into a viable and profitable livelihood, while creating employment opportunities for other youth in Kashmir.
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