Ganderbal Blooms with Entrepreneurial Spirit

In central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, a vibrant entrepreneurial movement is taking root, fuelled by the government's ambitious schemes aimed at empowering the people and fostering economic growth. From traditional crafts to innovative businesses, a diverse array of success stories has emerged, painting a vivid picture of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of opportunity.

One such tale is that of Ghulam Mohammad Magray, a resident of Kachan Ganderbal, who has etched his name in the annals of success with his remarkable mastery in Kani Work, a traditional Willow Wicker art form.

His outstanding skills have been recognised at the highest level, earning him the prestigious UT Level Award and the coveted first prize of Rs 50,000. This achievement not only celebrates his artistic prowess but also upholds rich cultural heritage.

Moreover, Magray's triumph extends beyond the monetary reward, as award winners like him are entitled to a monthly pension of Rs 8,000 upon reaching the age of 60, a testament to their lifelong dedication to the craft.

Magray's journey has been further enriched by his involvement in the Karkhandar Scheme, where he serves as a master trainer, imparting his expertise to numerous young women. This role has paved the way for skill development and empowerment, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community.

In recognition of his invaluable contributions, Magray is set to receive Rs 1,20,000 over six months as a token of appreciation from the government. With a heart brimming with gratitude, Magray sincerely thanks the authorities for their unwavering support and recognition, which have significantly contributed to his success and overall well-being.

Nazir Ahmad Parra, a resident of Zazna Ganderbal, is a testament to the transformative power of the government's Deep Borewell Scheme by the Department of Agriculture. Previously grappling with the harsh realities of water scarcity, Parra found his agricultural productivity severely hampered, particularly during the parched mid-summer months when crop yields were adversely affected.

However, implementing this innovative scheme has ushered in a newfound hope and prosperity for Parra's agricultural endeavours. The Deep Borewell Scheme has not only alleviated the water shortage issues that once plagued his fields but has also enabled enhanced agricultural productivity, unlocking the true potential of his land.

Furthermore, the subsidy of Rs 90,000 provided as part of the initiative has bolstered Parra's financial well-being, fueling his enthusiasm and determination to continue flourishing in the agricultural sector.

Mian Nazim, a visionary law student from Ganderbal, has defied conventional expectations by revitalizing his family's orchard into an 11 Kanal high-density success story. Aided by a 50% government subsidy through the Horticulture Development Plan (HDP) scheme, Nazim's passion for agriculture and his unwavering determination have paved the way for remarkable achievements.

A resident of Wooder Kachnambal in Kangan, Nazim delved into orchard management, capitalising on the government's support and his zeal for the land. His transformative journey from the realm of law to agriculture has positioned him as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. In just the first year of operation, Nazim's revitalized orchard yielded substantial returns, generating an impressive income of 4 lakh rupees from a mere 6 kanals.

However, Nazim's success transcends monetary gains, as he has emphasized his commitment to empowering his community by providing employment opportunities. By hiring and compensating two individuals, Nazim has not only elevated their standard of living but has also contributed to combating unemployment, underscoring the ripple effect of his visionary endeavour.

Farooq Ahmad Parra from Zazna Ganderbal stands as a shining example of the transformative impact of the government's HADP Scheme. Previously relegated to labour work, earning a meagre income barely enough to support his family, Parra's fortunes took a remarkable turn when he availed the benefits of the scheme provided by the Animal Husbandry Department.

Seizing the opportunity, he established a prosperous sheep farm, which has become the cornerstone of his newfound success. Today, Parra's entrepreneurial venture has not only secured his financial future but has also propelled him into a realm of prosperity, with his annual earnings ranging from an impressive 3 to 5 lakh rupees

Defying the conventional path of seeking a government job, Afshan, a Journalism and Mass Communication postgraduate from Serch area of Ganderbal district, embarked on an entrepreneurial odyssey that has yielded remarkable success.

Under the Tejaswani Scheme, through Mission Youth by the Department of Employment, Afshan seized the opportunity to kickstart her poultry farm, aptly named 'BAAGMANZUK' (meaning 'From the Garden').

With the boost of a Rs 5,00,000 interest-free loan, she invested in top-notch equipment, turning her passion into a thriving business venture. Afshan's unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit have paid dividends, as her flourishing establishment now proudly rakes in an impressive Rs 800,000 annually.

Mohammad Yousuf another beneficiary discovered the incredible HADP scheme at the Kissan Mela and seized the opportunity to invest in a new tractor. Now, his livelihood has seen a remarkable boost, bringing a smile to his face!

The Pack House provided by the Horticulture department has been a boon for Nazir Ahmad Parray of Nawabagh Ganderbal, enabling him to work effectively in horticulture regardless of weather conditions. Similarly, Firdous Ahmad Malik's successful poultry farm, initiated through the IPDP Scheme, has transformed his life and income.

Similarly, Firdous Ahmad Malik's uplifting path from the Watlar area of Ganderbal. Encountering the IPDP Scheme at an awareness camp, he initiated a successful poultry farm, transforming his life and income.

Firdous said he stumbled upon the incredible IPDP Scheme at a dynamic awareness camp hosted by the Department of Animal Husbandry. Leaping, Firdous established his very own poultry farm, turning it into a thriving source of income. Now, he's not just raising chickens, but also elevating his life with a flourishing livelihood.
Muhammad Sikander from Ghat Saloora, enrolled in the Karkhandar Scheme, has trained eight talented females, providing them with a monthly stipend of Rs 2,000 and empowering them through crafts.

Masrooma Rashid, with an MA B.Ed qualification, has ventured into business by securing the Raceway from the Department of Fisheries, benefiting from a 50% subsidy under HADP.
Shaista Lateef, an Arampora Ganderbal graduate, has pioneered 'Signature Boutique,' blending fashion innovation with youth employment under the Spurring Entrepreneurship Initiative.

Sheikh Waseem, a B.Com graduate from Tulamula and a beneficiary of the IDDS programme, has invested in 10 cows with a 50% subsidy, earning Rs 50,000 monthly while creating jobs and contributing to economic growth.

Assistant Director Handicraft & Handloom, Ganderbal Zahid Rashid highlighted the various Handicraft and Handloom Centres in the district, elucidating on the array of services they offer and providing insights on how individuals can access these services.

Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir, urged the unemployed youth, farmers, and skilled workers to avail the government schemes provided by various departments, emphasizing their potential to unlock new avenues of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.