A youngster from Ganderbal district, with a degree in automotive engineering, has set an inspiring example of self-reliance by starting profitable high-tech farming with support from the Department of Agriculture.
Under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), 28-year-old Gazanfar Manzoor from Takibal Khranihama has established a high-tech poly greenhouse spanning 500 square meters, transforming himself into an employment generator rather than a job seeker.
“Getting jobs is difficult these days, and even with an engineering degree, I faced challenges. That’s when I approached the Agriculture Department, where the officers informed me about this scheme. With their guidance, I built the poly greenhouse,” Gazanfar said.
In this controlled environment, created using advanced technology, he is cultivating a variety of vegetables without worrying about the season, temperature, or other prerequisites.
The total cost of the project, aimed at promoting vegetables through open and high-tech protected cultivation, was Rs 22 lakh, with 95% of the cost covered through a Government subsidy. However, eligibility for the scheme required land ownership and a background in farming.
“For the past year, I have been dedicated to this venture and have already generated good profits, which is highly satisfying,” Gazanfar said.
He credited the authorities for their support, adding, “They provided the necessary assistance and subsidy. Once I applied, a team assessed the feasibility of the project, and it was approved.”
Within just one year of operation, Gazanfar has employed four people to assist him in managing the polyhouse.
Notably, the controlled environment of the polyhouse allows him to cultivate vegetables typically unavailable during the winters.
Alongside waiting for the newly sown seeds to grow, he is also cultivating cucumbers, maize, and other varieties uncommon during the ongoing season.
In a message to unemployed youth, Gazanfar urged them to avoid pitfalls like substance abuse and instead take advantage of Government schemes available across various sectors.
“We need to move away from the mindset of being job seekers. If possible, we should leverage these schemes and strive to become employment generators. The key is hard work,” he said.
Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Ganderbal, Shahnawaz Ahmad Shah, highlighted the increasing participation of youth in such initiatives.
“Youth are taking advantage of various schemes, which are helping the department to contribute to employment generation. Under HADP and other programs, we’ve received a positive response. So far, 295 units have been established, generating 394 employment opportunities,” he said
