Udhampur (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 22 (ANI): Udhampur The region is rapidly becoming a hub for strawberry production, with growing numbers of farmers choosing strawberry farming and achieving remarkable success. Taking advantage of governmental programs, these farmers have established strawberry plantations that are generating substantial earnings, especially since the prices of strawberries have surged significantly this season.
The current market rate of Rs 50 per 250 grams has sparked great excitement amongst the farmers, who express gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi due to the government’s efforts that have contributed significantly to their prosperity.
Vinod Sharma, a farmer and business owner hailing from Thalora village within the Tehsil Majalta region of the district, Udhampur This is an instance illustrating this shift towards agriculture.
In 2021, Sharma began planting strawberries on a small scale, but he has since expanded to cover nine kanals of land with thriving plants yielding substantial profits. By shifting focus away from traditional crops to strawberries, he has significantly improved his economic situation.
The governmental support has been substantial, with Sharma receiving Rs 13,000 for each kanal of land, totaling Rs 1,17,000 for his nine-kanal property. Moreover, he was provided aid for essential facilities such as a packing facility, a deep well, and protective coverings, transforming his farming operation into a lucrative business in past seasons and anticipating significant profits.
"I used to depend on conventional crops, but strawberry farming completely changed my life," shares Sharma.
"This year, I've cultivated nine kanals of strawberries. Over the past half-decade, I’ve dedicated myself to strawberry farming. Initially, my plot was around 2-2.5 kanals. It’s proven to be quite profitable. The horticulture division offers numerous advantages; they provide me with a subsidy of Rs 13,000 per kanal. Additionally, the department installed a borewell for me. They also subsidized bird nets for protecting my crop. Various initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the central administration offer multiple programs. These include subsidies covering up to 95 percent,” he added.
Sharma also provides employment opportunities for people living in his neighborhood. He encourages other youth to pursue entrepreneurship rather than conventional jobs.
Rather than simply pursuing employment, focus on entering a promising industry and start your own venture. Consider taking up agriculture, as it has great potential. Government "Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India has initiated numerous programs aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector," he proposed.
Sharma expressed satisfaction with the implementation of these governmental programs, noting that they had converted his farming business into a lucrative enterprise.
At the same time, in Chai Village, Udhampur In the district, farmer Rashpaul Singh has similarly attained significant success via strawberry farming. Although he initially faced difficulties due to arid weather which jeopardized crop growth, recent rainfall rejuvenated the strawberry plants, leading to an abundant yield.
Singh, who cultivates strawberries on two kanals of land in Panchayat Ku, has witnessed a significant increase in the market price at the fruit and vegetable market, far exceeding the Rs 15 to 20 they typically received during previous seasons.
"He mentioned that he is receiving better prices for strawberries in the market than previously. Additionally, the crop has thrived. They earn around Rs 35 for each 200 grams of strawberries packed," he stated.
He further noted that the significant increase in prices had once again ignited the strawberry farming community, transforming a potentially ruinous season into an unexpectedly prosperous one for the local agricultural economy.
Government Programmes in Jammu and Kashmir are emerging as significant catalysts for engaging young people in horticultural activities, driven primarily by advanced technologies and the prospect of substantial returns. These initiatives, introduced by the government, aim to stimulate interest among the youth. Government Of India and the Horticulture Department aim to foster independent young entrepreneurs who create job opportunities rather than seeking employment themselves. (ANI)
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