Empowering Farmers and Youth: Dr. Danish Bashir’s Journey as a Krishi Udyami

“KKG is not just a service hub; it is a lifeline for farmers, empowering them with knowledge, resources, and opportunities to thrive.”

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Farhat Umar speaks with Dr. Danish Bashir, a dedicated Krishi Udyami working at Kisan Khidmat Ghar (KKG), Nowgham, under the Chief Agriculture Office in Lal Mandi, Srinagar. With a Ph.D. in Fruit Science from SKUAST-Kashmir, Dr. Bashir has seamlessly blended his academic expertise with entrepreneurial aspirations, helping farmers access government schemes, technical guidance, and essential agricultural inputs.

Through KKG, she is not only assisting farmers but also encouraging educated youth, including women, to explore entrepreneurship in agriculture. She shares her vision for KKG’s future, the impact of digital transformation in farming, and his commitment to building trust between farmers and the Agriculture Department. His inspiring journey highlights how passion and dedication can turn challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a thriving agricultural ecosystem.

Q: Can you tell us about yourself and your journey to becoming a Krishi Udyami?

Dr. Danish Bashir: I am Dr. Danish Bashir, working as a Krishi Udyami at Kisan Khidmat Ghar, Nowgham, under the Chief Agriculture Office in Lal Mandi, Srinagar. I have a Ph.D. in Fruit Science from SKUAST-Kashmir and currently reside in Bagh-i-Mehtab, Srinagar. When I came across the advertisement for Agriculture Entrepreneurs, I immediately decided to join. The required qualifications aligned with my academic background, and it offered flexibility, allowing me to stay connected with my subject while also giving time to my child, as the role allows providing services from home as well.

Q: What services does the Kisan Khidmat Ghar provide to farmers?

Dr. Danish Bashir: KKG is a one-stop solution for farmers. It offers a range of services, from selecting suitable land to marketing their produce. Farmers can avail themselves of all these services under one roof. My role involves introducing farmers to the various schemes and latest developments in the Agriculture Department.

Q: What are your key responsibilities at KKG Srinagar?

Dr. Danish Bashir: My primary role is to assist farmers with applications for schemes through the Kisan Sathi portal and other government portals, provide them with basic technical expertise, and connect them with experts for advanced guidance. Additionally, I ensure timely availability of inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment at approved rates.

Q: How do you assist farmers with accessing schemes and resources?

Dr. Danish Bashir: I guide them through the Kisan Sathi portal, helping them fill out applications correctly. Many farmers are unfamiliar with digital processes, so I ensure they understand each step. Once their applications are approved, I follow up to ensure they receive the intended benefits without delays.

Q: How are you encouraging youth to take up entrepreneurship?

Dr. Danish Bashir: We are actively encouraging educated youth, including women, who are unable to find jobs to explore entrepreneurship opportunities. The government offers subsidies of up to 80 percent, which can uplift unemployed youth. Our aim is to inspire more people to become independent and take advantage of these schemes.

Q: How do you see KKG evolving in the future?

Dr. Danish Bashir: My goal is to become a successful entrepreneur myself and a job provider for other unemployed youth. I also strive to build trust between farmers, the Kisan Khidmat Ghar, and the Agriculture Department. By ensuring the sensible use of modern gadgets and technologies installed at KKG, I hope to help farmers adopt innovative practices that will lead to prosperity.

Q: What message would you like to share with farmers?*

Dr. Danish Bashir: I encourage all farmers to visit their nearest Kisan Khidmat Ghar to avail themselves of the services provided by Krishi Udyamis. Have faith in us, as we are committed to providing quality products at fair prices and offering all kinds of assistance at one stop—your Kisan Khidmat Ghar. Together, we can work towards a brighter and more prosperous future.