Srinagar, Aug 18: Gowhar Ali Lone, an innovative and inspirational farmer from Khonchipora, Tangmarg area of Baramulla district who practices integrated farming, has been selected for the “Progressive Mushroom Award 2023”.
The 30-year-old farmer will receive the award from the Directorate of Mushroom Research at Chambaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh during the upcoming Mushroom Mela 2023 scheduled for September 10 at ICAR DMR Solan.
“On behalf of Director, ICAR-DMR, Solan (HP), it is our immense pleasure to convey that Gowhar Ali Lone has been selected for the ‘Progressive Mushroom Award 2023,” reads a communication sent to Gowhar.
He has been invited to attend the mela and receive the award. As per the communication, he will present the (powerpoint) presentation during the award ceremony and will be felicitated during the event.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr Sehrish Asghar on Thursday, called Gowhar and congratulated him for being selected for the prestigious award at Solan HP.
In 2007, the progressive farmer started growing mushrooms in some 27 trays in one room after he was encouraged by the Agriculture Department Kashmir. Today, the integrated farmer is the successful agri entrepreneur of north Kashmir.
Also known as the mushroom king of north Kashmir, he has been recognised both at the national level and by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.
The farmer has revolutionised the Integrated Farming system through new innovations and the adoption of new technologies in agriculture.
Gowhar said that if any unemployed youth wants to turn the mushroom business into a lucrative venture, he/she should take benefit of the schemes of the agriculture department.
Notably, Lieutenant Governor J&K, Manoj Sinha mentioned Gowhar in the 24th edition of Awaam Ki Awaaz, a monthly radio program, and praised his integrated farming.
Earlier also, he had received an award of appreciation from Lieutenant Governor J&K in recognition of the promotion of mushrooms in district Baramulla.
Gowhar has participated in several training programs in agriculture and allied fields. In 2021, he received the Innovative Farmer Award from Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi for his contribution to agriculture and allied sectors.
In April this year, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Chowdhary Muhammad Iqbal visited Gowhar’s farm to encourage his outstanding performance in mushroom cultivation and inaugurated his first mushroom produce of the year.
Poultry manure produced in his farm is being utilised in the farm which has reduced the cost of fertilizer and improved soil health. He also produces compost for mushrooms.
Many farmers and youth visit his home to take a glimpse of his success and many have followed his footsteps. His interest in agriculture and hard labour made him a progressive farmer.
