Meet the Mushroom Man of Baramulla
Suhail Khan
RAFIABAD, Oct 20: After years of struggle to earn a living; a young man from north Kashmir’s Rafiabad area has finally found a way to a dignified sustenance through Mushroom cultivation thus not only living up his family’s expectations but also generating employment opportunities for the youth like him who want to excel in their lives.
Meet 38-year-old Mohammad Ishfaq Mallah, son of Haji Ameer-u-ddin Mallah of Battapora Rafiabad, who kick-started his own business of mushroom cultivation, thus setting an example for many of the youth who are feeling hopeless and helpless in search of a government job.
This young man not only became an inspiration for the younger generation but has also proved that accepting any challenge with dedication can lead you towards a spectacular success.
Talking to Kashmir Despacth, Mohammad Ishfaq Mallah said: “I was running a commercial vehicle for almost 10 years but through which I could barely suffice my needs. Then one day, five years ago, I got a chance to attend a horticulture workshop at my locality, where I came to know about this Mushroom cultivation.”
He said the employees present at the workshop suggested that he try his luck in this business. However, at one point of time Mallah thought it was a waste of time and how he could meet the commitments made with his family. But one of the officers insisted he not quit and helped him to start the business.
The young entrepreneur told Kashmir Despatch, “In the first year of this business I was not able to generate a handsome profit, but one thing was clear, my family requirements were addressed, which added to my interest to go for it. Alhamdulillah, from next year onwards I started earning well, which impressed my family too to switch to this business for the whole time, and the result is in front of all of us today as my whole family is involved in this business.”
He also thanked the horticulture department for giving him a platform and also helping him with the marketing techniques.
The young man said that last year he was able to generate around 150 kg of mushrooms. “In future, I am planning to start a mushroom farm through which I will focus on north Kashmir and also provide jobs to the unemployed youth.”
The 37-year-old Ishfaq said that for this business, a very little investment is needed, and once started; one can easily earn a livelihood in this business with a good margin for the profits.
In a message to the youth, Ishfaq said that they should not waste their precious time in search of a job or in starting a business. “Mushroom business is the best option to start a good innings in life,” he opined. He said the youth who are interested in this sector should visit the horticulture department that will not only assist but provide support on ground also.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
