Strawberry farming brings prosperity into Dowal farmers’ lives

Kashmir: Ashwini Kumar, a farmer from Khod block in Jammu and Kashmir, is inspiring his fellow villagers with his success in strawberry farming in the border village of Dowal. Just a few years ago, he decided to add strawberry cultivation to his traditional farming practices, and today, this decision has transformed his life, bringing him significant financial gains.

Ashwini’s father, Prabhat Chand, had been practicing traditional farming for years. However, recognizing the need to adapt to modern agricultural trends, he encouraged his son to try innovative methods. Last year, Ashwini began cultivating strawberries, and the results have been remarkable. By March this year, his income from strawberry farming had more than doubled, prompting him to expand production.

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Now, strawberries are not just their primary source of income but also a symbol of pride for their family and village. Ashwini believes that embracing modern technology and innovative farming methods is essential for growth. Despite living in a border area, he has successfully experimented with various techniques in strawberry farming, which has motivated other farmers, including women in the village, to follow his example.

Strawberry farming has become popular in the village because of its potential to generate high profits in a short period. The Horticulture Department has played a crucial role in supporting the farmers by providing guidance, resources, and technical assistance. From offering advice on seasonal treatments to sourcing quality seeds, the department ensures farmers have the tools they need for success.