Despite many challenges, social remarks, and an atmosphere of insecurity, Aasiya remained steadfast about her children’s future.
The story of 32-year-old Aasiya from Bandipora district of Jammu & Kashmir is not just of one woman, but the voice of countless women who refuse to give up despite difficult circumstances. Aasiya’s husband was serving in the Indian Army and was martyred during duty. Losing her husband, the responsibility of two children, and social pressure suddenly changed Aasiya’s life. But these circumstances did not break her; instead, they made her stronger.
A path from the Army, an identity from farming
Speaking to DNN24, Aasiya said, “My husband was martyred on 2 November 2015. I got the idea of mushroom farming when I visited the Kupwara battalion where my husband was posted. It was during a visit for an anniversary celebration, when the Battalion CO had invited us. I shared all my problems with the CO sahib and told him that I wanted to do something on my own. He listened patiently and suggested mushroom cultivation. He then connected me with district agriculture officers. From there, I received proper direction and guidance.”
No land, only courage
Aasiya had no fields, no agricultural land, and no big resources. What she did have was courage and the determination to do something meaningful. She proved that to become a successful farmer, intention matters more than land. Aasiya turned the rooftop of her father’s house into her farming space. That rooftop marked the beginning of her new life.
She first started growing mushrooms on the terrace with support from the agriculture department. After harvesting mushrooms, she did not want to waste the leftover compost. Since she had no land, she began growing vegetables first on slabs and later in baskets filled with soil. It was a small step, but it became the biggest turning point of her life.
First success boosted confidence
Amid challenges, social comments, and insecurity, Aasiya stayed focused on her children’s future. She decided that no matter how difficult the situation, she would become self-reliant. Her very first mushroom crop was successful. After that, she never looked back. Gradually, she started growing vegetables, spices, and medicinal plants on her rooftop. The entire terrace turned into a nutrition garden. This was not just farming, but a new example of self-reliance.
Income built through hard work
Today, Aasiya sells around 30 kilograms of mushrooms and hundreds of kilograms of vegetables every month. Customers themselves call her and collect produce from her home. She does not need to go to the market. From mushrooms and vegetables, Aasiya earns around ₹30,000 to ₹35,000 per month. This income reflects her self-respect and confidence.
After her husband’s death, it became difficult for Aasiya to stay at her earlier place, so she moved to her father’s home. Her father trusted her and supported her at every step. This support gave Aasiya the strength to move forward. Today, she is not only fulfilling her children’s education and needs, but has also become a strong pillar for the family.
An inspiration for women
Aasiya’s story is no longer just her own. She now trains other women in mushroom cultivation and rooftop farming. Many girls call her to learn. She is invited to agriculture department stalls, DC offices, schools, and local events. This has increased both her recognition and market reach.
Aasiya has received several awards for her work. A recent honor symbolizes that even if land is limited, new paths can be found in the sky. Her hard work has given her recognition as an inspiring woman farmer of Kashmir.
Change growing on a rooftop
Aasiya’s story teaches us that farming is not limited to fields. Desire, hard work, and courage are also forms of land. Rooftop and indoor farming today are giving women opportunities to become self-reliant, build their identity, and live with dignity. Every crop growing on this Kashmiri rooftop is proof that change can take root anywhere.
Also Read: Nazir Ahmad Rather:Connecting Kashmir’s Apple Orchards to the World
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