India’s finest quality Brussels Sprouts grow in Pulwama’s Gudbugh village

Gudbugh Nowpora village in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district has gained recognition for cultivating the Brussels sprouts, the best of the quality in the entire country.
The exotic vegetable, belonging to the Gemmifera cultivar group of cabbages (Brassica oleracea) was introduced by an elderly progressive farmer, Ghulam Mohammed Mir, who is also a member of Kissan advisory board from Moolchitragam village in Shopian.
Mir’s journey began with the inspiration he garnered from experts at the Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Kashmir during a training program.
Sowing the seeds in May, he meticulously nurtured the Brussels sprouts with keen attention.
Upon successful harvest after six months, Mir enthusiastically shared the achievement with the Agriculture Extension Officer in Tahab, who promptly facilitated the marketing of this exotic crop.
Expressing his satisfaction, Mir disclosed, “400 grams of Brussels Sprouts sell for three dollars in the European market, equivalent to rupees 240.”
Officials from Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare lauded the quality, affirming that Mir’s Brussels sprouts stand out as the finest in the country.
Mir emphasised the organic cultivation practices employed, utilising vermicompost and organic manures, adding a unique distinction to his Brussels sprouts.
The biennial nature of the vegetable, taking six months to produce the first crop, aligns with Mir’s commitment to delivering a top-tier product.
The plants, reaching heights of 30 to 36 inches, bear walnut-sized sprouts along their main axis, resembling miniature cabbage heads with tightly packed leaves.
Originated from Brussels, Belgium, this exotic vegetable has gained international acclaim for its edible buds, recognised as a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
Studies estimate that 100 grams of Brussels Sprouts provide 43 kcal of energy, 8.95 grams of carbohydrates, and 3.8 grams of dietary fibre. Rich in vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and various B vitamins, these leafy greens boast a diverse nutrient profile, including essential minerals like iron, manganese, and potassium.
With a water content of 86 grams, Brussels sprouts contribute significantly to overall health.
Former Director of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Kashmir, Syed Altaf Aijaz Andrabi, highlighted the introduction of exotic vegetables like Broccoli, Brussels, Sweet Corn, Yellow Capsicum, Red Cabbage, and Parsley in Kashmir in 2017.
Andrabi stressed the health benefits and economic potential of these vegetables, saying, “One kilogram of Brussels sells for rupees 150 in the local market,” foreseeing a promising future for farmers engaged in their cultivation with ample scope for export.
Mir’s 20 Kanal farm demonstrates the potential of integrated farming techniques. The prestigious farm houses three fish ponds, a dairy unit, a sheep rearing unit, a poultry unit and high density apple orchard besides exotic vegetables like Broccoli, Red cabbage, Kale, Parsley and Ground nuts.
A former carpenter who had worked as manual labourer in different parts of Punjab is now providing employment to many people.
Mir’s transformation is such an inspiration that it was captured in an annual publication by ATARI( Agriculture Technology Application Research Institute) Ludhiana.