Hygam sisters lead agri innovation in Sopore

Sopore, Mar 29: In a compelling example of grassroots innovation and women-led entrepreneurship, two sisters from Hygam in Sopore, Baramulla district, have established a state-of-the-art hi-tech vegetable sapling unit, aiming to transform local farming practices and promote self-reliance among growers.

The initiative comes at a time when agriculture in the region is gradually shifting towards modern, technology-driven practices. By integrating advanced nursery techniques with controlled-environment systems, the sisters have developed a facility capable of producing high-quality, disease-resistant hybrid vegetable saplings year-round.

The unit employs protected cultivation methods, temperature-controlled environments, and scientific seed treatment to ensure uniform growth and consistent output. Such practices are expected to significantly enhance crop productivity and reduce risks associated with traditional farming methods.

Speaking about their vision, the founders said their objective goes beyond commercial success.

“We wanted to support local farmers by providing quality planting material so they can improve both yield and income,” they said, adding that farmers in the area have long struggled with limited access to reliable saplings and often depend on costly external sources.

The unit produces a diverse range of seasonal and off-season vegetable saplings tailored to the region’s climatic conditions. These hybrid varieties offer higher yield potential and improved resistance to pests and diseases, helping farmers lower input costs and minimise crop losses.

Farmers from Hygam and surrounding areas have begun showing strong interest in the initiative. Many see it as a timely intervention that could strengthen vegetable cultivation in the region.

“This is a big relief for us. We can now access quality saplings locally instead of sourcing them from outside,” said a farmer from Sopore.

Beyond its agricultural impact, the venture is also contributing to local employment, particularly for women. By engaging them in nursery operations, packaging, and distribution, the initiative is fostering economic empowerment and encouraging greater participation of women in agri-based enterprises.

Experts note that such ventures are essential for diversifying Sopore’s agriculture, which has traditionally been dominated by apple cultivation. The Hygam sisters’ initiative reflects a broader shift towards scientific farming and highlights the role of youth-led innovation in strengthening rural economies.

Their success is likely to inspire more young entrepreneurs, especially women, to explore opportunities in modern agriculture, contributing to a more sustainable and self-reliant farming ecosystem in the region.