From a simple apple grower sending fruits to markets across India, to the transformation into an entrepreneur, the journey of this man is one of remarkable evolution which has also become a source of livelihood for many others. It all began with the establishment of a local fruit Mandi, followed by the registration of a unit in the industries department.
These pivotal moments changed the trajectory of his life, propelling him towards entrepreneurship and paving the way for the employment of many others in his unit. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration for those considering a path in the horticulture sector.
Meet Safdar Ali Khan, a 55-year-old man whose journey began with the horticulture sector—a path defined by challenges, setbacks, and eventual triumphs.
He said in 2005 he was a dedicated grower by profession and would tirelessly send his fruits to markets all around India but mostly to Ahmedabad and Kolkata, striving to earn his daily bread and butter. Little did he know that his path would soon intersect with the dawn of change in his own hometown.
“In 2006, a fruit Mandi was established in Kulgam. There were a lot of initial doubts and teasing from locals who questioned the sustainability of such an endeavour in their community. But he was undeterred, despite facing three years of stagnation before witnessing the first signs of progress,
He said with unwavering determination and a wealth of horticultural expertise, he took charge, transforming his business from Safdar Sons to Badshah Fruit Company in 2008. Despite all the challenges, he instilled a sense of pride and resilience in his employees, reminding them that success is not just about titles but about preserving one’s reputation and integrity.
He said that the early days in the Mandi were marked by hardship; they along with their peers used to sit on makeshift beds, lacking proper shelter or facilities. Yet, amidst the adversity, hope emerged when the government officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam and the Director of Horticulture, pledged support.
He said that their promise of essential amenities like drinking water and power was met with a simple yet crucial demand from the growers: the allotment of shops. “Our persistence paid off, as Manzoor Ahmad Lone, Commissioner Secretary of Horticulture, returned with the much-needed allocations, sparking newfound optimism among the people in the Mandi,” he said.
New venture:
As the Mandi fluctuated between activity and dormancy, Safdar Ali Khan remained steadfast in his commitment to growth. In 2013, he embarked on a new venture, establishing a chamber for ‘Banana Ripening’ with a substantial investment of 1.30 crore. “I secured a loan from the bank and subsidies, propelling this business forward,” he said.
Today, Safdar’s efforts bear fruit as his enterprise boasts a turnover exceeding a crore monthly. With dozens of employees directly benefiting from his operations and countless others indirectly supported, Safdar’s impact extends far beyond the confines of his business in Kulgam, spreading to other parts, as he now connects with other fruit Mandis.
An official from DIC Kulgam said that the Badshah Banana Chamber was registered with the industries department in 2020. He had invested in plant and machinery amounting to 91 lakh and also owned his land and building.
“According to rough data available, he generated employment for over 18 others, a number that fluctuates depending on the business’s prosperity. However, he wasn’t sponsored by the industries department but by the National Horticulture Board,” he added.
According to the information available on the National Horticulture Board (NHB) website regarding the subsidy release under the “Development of Commercial Horticulture through Production & Post Harvest Management” scheme for the year 2014-15, the Badshah Banana Ripening Chamber in Kulgam had a project cost of 160.75 lakhs. The amount released as subsidy by NHB was 45.210 lakhs.
