Udhampur, April 3,2026-In an inspiring example of innovation and self-reliance, a farmer from Udhampur has transformed his agricultural land into a flourishing organic farm, cultivating high-value crops like strawberries and vegetables without the use of chemical fertilisers.
Rampal Sharma, a resident of Panchayat Kambal Danga, has emerged as a role model for aspiring farmers by adopting modern horticulture practices. After completing his Master’s degree in Sociology, he faced uncertainty over employment, which led him to explore opportunities in agriculture.
Guided by the Department of Horticulture, Sharma ventured into strawberry cultivation nearly five years ago. Starting with just two kanals of land, he gradually expanded his farm to six kanals, turning it into a sustainable source of livelihood for his family.
“I started strawberry cultivation with guidance from the Horticulture Department. Today, our entire family depends on it, and it has also created employment opportunities for local women,” Sharma said.
Initially, his efforts were met with skepticism, as villagers were unfamiliar with strawberry farming and doubted its viability. However, his success has since inspired a shift in mindset across the panchayat. Today, nearly 25 kanals of land in the area are under strawberry cultivation, reflecting a growing trend towards high-value and organic farming.
Sharma also highlighted the role of government support in his journey, noting that subsidies of up to 50 percent on machinery provided by the department have made modern farming techniques more accessible and affordable.
His success story not only underscores the potential of organic farming and horticulture in Jammu and Kashmir but also demonstrates how innovation, institutional support, and perseverance can create sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
