Tangmarg’s ‘Mushroom man’ receives ‘Farmer Icon 40 Under 40’ award

Baramulla, Dec 11: Widely known as ‘Mushroom Man’, Gowhar Ali Lone, from Tangmarg area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has added another feather to his cap by receiving India’s “Top 40 Young Agri Achievers award” for the prestigious “Farmer Icon 40 Under 40” (FI 40U40) Awards 2025 in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The award ceremony was held from December 7–9, 2025, at ICAR–IARI, Pusa Grounds, New Delhi, where Gowhar was felicitated with a State-Level FI 40U40 Honour.

This recognition comes close on the heels of another national honour. Earlier, Gowhar was selected for the Progressive Mushroom Award 2023 by the Directorate of Mushroom Research (DMR), Chambaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, an award conferred during the Mushroom Mela.

Hailing from Tangmarg in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district, Gowhar rose from humble beginnings to emerge as a leading agri-entrepreneur, drawing national attention for his innovation in mushroom cultivation and vertical farming. Starting his journey in a modest 20×40 ft room, Gowhar, initially worked with 70 trays, gradually expanding to over 500 trays through sheer dedication and innovation.

“The twice-a-year mushroom cultivation during autumn and spring fetches me around Rs 6 lakh, which is far more than the returns from a 10-kanal apple orchard,” he said.

He also earns additional income from the resale of used compost. Gowhar later diversified into vertical farming, utilising his home’s pavement and even his kitchen terrace to grow vegetables and nurture fruit trees. His innovative techniques have inspired farmers across the North Kashmir. Recognised by both the UT administration and the Government of India, Gowhar has received multiple awards, including appreciation certificates from the Department of Agriculture, SKUAST, and a national award presented by the Union Agriculture Minister in New Delhi. His journey has now expanded into integrated farming, combining dairy, sheep rearing, and poultry. Owing to his achievements, Gowhar has become a sought-after speaker for young agri-entrepreneurs. With national platforms now recognising his efforts, Gowhar Lone continues to serve as an inspiration for youth aspiring to transform the agriculture sector through innovation and resilience.