Baramulla, November 13,2026- From starting with just eight hens to establishing her own poultry brand, Farm Freshness, Abida Haamid from Shirpora village of Baramulla district is emerging as an inspiring example of women entrepreneurship and self-employment in Jammu and Kashmir.
Popularly known as the ‘Poultry Queen of Kashmir’, Abida has transformed a small household initiative into a growing business through determination, hard work and an entrepreneurial mindset. Her journey reflects how a modest beginning, combined with dedication and confidence, can create opportunities for sustainable livelihood.
What began with only eight hens gradually developed into a poultry venture, giving Abida an opportunity to turn her interest in poultry farming into a business. Today, through her brand Farm Freshness, she has established an identity as a woman entrepreneur in a sector that offers opportunities for self-employment and income generation.
From Eight Hens to an Entrepreneurial Journey
Abida’s journey began on a small scale, with just eight hens at her household in Shirpora, Baramulla. Instead of viewing the limited resources as a barrier, she took the initiative to explore poultry farming as a means of generating income.
Her decision to start small reflects the importance of identifying opportunities within one’s available resources. Poultry farming, which can be initiated on a relatively modest scale, offers individuals an opportunity to develop their own livelihood activities.
With time, her household initiative developed into a business venture, eventually leading to the establishment of her own brand, Farm Freshness.
Her journey highlights the role of entrepreneurship in transforming small household activities into organised business initiatives. It also demonstrates how individuals, particularly women in rural areas, can explore alternative livelihood opportunities through self-employment.
Farm Freshness: Building a Business Identity
The establishment of Farm Freshness marks an important step in Abida’s entrepreneurial journey. By developing her own poultry brand, she has moved beyond a small household initiative towards building a distinct business identity.
Her story highlights the importance of taking initiative, recognising local opportunities and working towards creating independent sources of income.
Poultry farming has considerable potential for rural entrepreneurship, as it provides opportunities for individuals to engage in income-generating activities without necessarily requiring large-scale infrastructure at the initial stage.
Abida’s experience serves as an example of how small initiatives can develop into business ventures when supported by commitment, consistent effort and a clear vision.
An Inspiration for Women and Unemployed Youth
Beyond her business journey, Abida Haamid has become an encouraging example for women and unemployed youth who aspire to become self-reliant.
Her journey sends a message that entrepreneurship does not always require a large investment or an elaborate business setup. Sometimes, a small beginning and the willingness to take the first step can open doors to new opportunities.
For women in rural communities, stories like Abida’s highlight the possibilities of economic participation and independent livelihood generation. They also encourage women to explore sectors such as poultry farming, agriculture, food production and other small businesses.
Her success story can motivate unemployed youth to consider self-employment and explore local business opportunities instead of depending entirely on conventional employment options.
A Story of Determination and Women Empowerment
Abida’s transformation from managing eight hens to establishing Farm Freshness reflects the spirit of determination and entrepreneurship emerging from the villages of Jammu and Kashmir.
Her journey also highlights the importance of encouraging women-led enterprises and supporting small businesses that contribute to rural economic activity.
As more women explore entrepreneurship, such initiatives can help create awareness about self-employment, livelihood opportunities and financial independence.
The story of the ‘Poultry Queen of Kashmir’ is a reminder that big ambitions can begin with small steps. From eight hens in Shirpora to her own poultry brand, Abida Haamid has demonstrated how determination and initiative can turn a modest household activity into a growing business.
Her journey continues to inspire women and young people to believe in their abilities, explore entrepreneurship and work towards building a self-reliant future.
