Sajid Raina
Bandipora, Aug 21: A 33-year-old Mumtaza Begum from the Watrina in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district has emerged as a beacon of success in the realm of sheep farming.
Overcoming adversity and the challenge of leaving college at a young age, her journey is an embodiment of turning dreams into reality through her flourishing sheep farming venture.
“My desire to lead a fulfilled life was never quelled, despite having to leave college early. The flames of my aspiration to create a successful career continued to burn,” Mumtaza said. She said that despite limited options due to financial and societal constraints, her attention turned towards sheep farming, a field her family dabbled in modestly with around 10-15 sheep.
“Yet, her ambitions stretched beyond this modest scale. Her vision encompassed expanding her flock size and establishing a thriving commercial livestock enterprise,” she said.
Guided by the Department of Sheep Husbandry in Bandipora, she said that she took a pivotal step by applying for the Subsidy-based State-sponsored scheme called ‘Mini Sheep Farms.’ “In February 2019, I was selected for the sheep unit under this program and allocated a unit of 50 sheep,” she said.
“My journey began with a series of challenges stemming from the labor-intensive nature of sheep farming and my limited experience,” she said, adding that yet, her unwavering dedication, resilience, and hard work propelled her forward, leading to significant accomplishments over the years.
Mumtaza, the educated lady, attributes a substantial portion of her success to the consistent support of her husband, a steadfast source of motivation and emotional strength throughout her entrepreneurial voyage.
“Behind every successful woman stands a supportive husband. Much of my achievements wouldn’t have been feasible without his steadfast encouragement. Through thick and thin, he’s been my rock,” Mumtaza expressed.
She highlighted the crucial role a supportive spouse plays, especially for female entrepreneurs who juggle both business endeavors and the responsibility of raising a family.
In her journey, Mumtaza recognizes the indispensable role played by the Department of Sheep Husbandry in helping her surmount the obstacles along her path to triumph.
Venturing into sheep farming has substantially enhanced her life, bringing a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. With her family’s unwavering backing, she tirelessly works to encourage other women, urging them to seize every available opportunity to uplift their socio-economic status.
“I’ve found profound contentment. I work tirelessly, leveraging the full support of my family. My message to all women is to harness the opportunities presented to them and strive for a better socio-economic standing. The satisfaction lies in proving to oneself and others that one can indeed improve their circumstances,” she said.
Presently, she presides over a thriving sheep farm with more than 210 sheep, generating an annual net income of over five lakh rupees. “The majority of my sheep are sold as sacrificial animals during Eid ul Azha, contributing to her success,” she added.
Furthermore, her enterprise has generated job opportunities for several young people, fostering local economic growth and community development.
