Kupwara, Jan,27:Gulshan Begum,A 35-year-old resident of Dudipora village in North Kashmir's Kupwara district, has emerged as a beacon of hope and an inspiring agricultural entrepreneur, transforming her life and providing opportunities for others.
With a background as a BSc 2nd-year student and a nursing trainee, Gulshan Begum decided to put her education on hold to explore innovative agricultural practices. Her journey began in 2023 when she approached the Agriculture Department in Handwara to establish a low-cost polyhouse. Within months, she received approval and began cultivating vegetables inside the polyhouse.
“Since 2024, I have earned nearly ₹2 lakh as profit from this polyhouse setup,” she shared with pride.
Gulshan's determination led her to expand her skills. She underwent a seven-day training program on mushroom cultivation at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara, facilitated by SKUAST-K. Impressed by her dedication, the Agriculture Department approved a mushroom unit for her after a team visited her home. Her efforts bore fruit, and she generated a steady income through mushroom farming.
Her entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. Although she initially faced setbacks in securing livestock support from the Sheep Husbandry Department, she took matters into her own hands. In March 2024, she purchased 10 sheep, which have now grown to a flock of 35.
“I am also thankful to the Animal Husbandry Department, which provided me with three cows last year. This has been a significant source of income and health for my family,” Gulshan said.
Today, she is not just an entrepreneur but also a job provider. Gulshan employs three unemployed youths to care for her sheep, ensuring they receive proper salaries.
“My goal is to engage unemployed youth in agricultural activities and steer them away from harmful habits like drug abuse,” she said.
Gulshan plans to further diversify her efforts by venturing into poultry and floriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and innovative farming practices.
Her husband, a police officer, has been a pillar of support throughout her journey, helping her balance family responsibilities with her entrepreneurial ventures. The couple has three children who are excelling in their studies, with their eldest daughter being 14 years old.
Gulshan credits her success to the unwavering support of agricultural and allied departments, particularly the scientific team at KVK Kupwara and SKUAST-K. She also expressed gratitude to progressive farmer Mohammad Ramzan Bramri, whom she regards as a mentor.
Her story is a testament to how determination, hard work, and collaboration with government departments can transform lives. Gulshan Begum is now a role model for educated, unemployed youth in Kupwara, proving that agriculture can be a rewarding and impactful career.
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