In Kashmir, amid towering mountains and lush meadows, lies a time-honored tradition of sheep farming that is deeply woven into the fabric of the valley’s history and culture. With roots reaching back thousands of years, this practice not only sustains livelihoods but also forms an integral part of the cultural mosaic. In the face of rising unemployment rates, stories like that of Nazeer Ahmad Baba, a young agri-entrepreneur who ventured into sheep farming, inspire the youth of his area. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of sheep farming in Jammu and Kashmir, from its historical origins to its thriving present.
Historical Roots
The history of sheep farming in Jammu and Kashmir underscores its enduring significance. Archaeological excavations have unearthed evidence of sheep rearing dating back to the 3rd millennium BC. This ancient practice finds mention in the annals of Sanskrit texts, including the Rig Veda.
Globally, sheep farming holds a special place as one of the oldest forms of animal husbandry. Sheep were among the first animals to be domesticated by humans, with evidence dating back over 10,000 years to regions in present-day Iraq and Iran. This ancient practice has shaped human civilization by providing sustenance through meat, wool, and other by-products.
Sheep Farming in the Indian Subcontinent
The Indian subcontinent, with its diverse climates and terrains, has been a fertile ground for sheep farming for millennia. Archaeological evidence suggests that sheep were domesticated in the Indus Valley Civilization around 3300 to 1300 BC. These early sheep farmers not only reared these animals but also utilized their wool for crafting textiles, including clothing, carpets, and tapestries. Such practices are mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts, underlining the integral role of sheep in the culture and economy of the Indian subcontinent.
During the Mughal period (1526-1857), sheep rearing in India, including the Jammu and Kashmir region, thrived. The Mughals, known for their affinity for luxurious textiles, imported significant quantities of sheep and wool from Central Asia. They also established sheep breeding farms in various parts of India, further contributing to the development of the sector. The British East India Company, arriving in the 17th century, introduced new breeds and established wool mills to process Indian wool.
Post-Independence Development
Following India’s independence in 1947, the government of Jammu and Kashmir recognized the critical importance of the sheep rearing industry. Consequently, a dedicated Sheep Husbandry Department was established to foster its growth. This department played a pivotal role in boosting sheep productivity and wool quality.
In 1960, the Sheep Breeding and Research Farm at Dachigam was established, further fortifying the region’s sheep farming infrastructure. Subsequently, in 1982, the Department of Sheep Husbandry was bifurcated into two separate entities, one for Kashmir and one for Jammu, each helmed by a Divisional Director.
Sheep Breeds in the Valley
Today, Jammu and Kashmir hosts a diverse array of sheep breeds, each contributing to the region’s rich sheep farming heritage.
- Kashmiri Merino: Renowned for its fine and luxurious wool, the Kashmiri Merino has been prized for centuries. The softness and warmth of its wool make it a preferred choice for crafting exquisite shawls and textiles.
- Gurezi: Among the Kashmiri breeds, Gurezi sheep are the largest. They are known for their coarse white wool and robust constitution, making them well-suited to the region’s rugged terrain.
- Bakharwal: Bakharwal sheep are famed for their adaptability to high altitudes and harsh weather conditions. These sheep are often reared by the Gujjars, Bakerwals, Chopans, and Gaddies, traditional sheep-rearing communities in the region.
Contemporary Significance
Today, sheep farming remains a cornerstone of the local economy, providing employment to thousands and significantly contributing to the region’s GDP. Sheep serve as a vital source of food, wool, and manure, supporting the livelihoods of countless communities.
Challenges and Prospects
Despite its historical significance, sheep farming in Jammu and Kashmir faces numerous challenges:
- Climate Change: Changing climate patterns, characterized by excessive snowfall, torrential rains, and cloudbursts, pose significant threats to sheep well-being.
- Disease and Predation: Sheep are vulnerable to various diseases and predation by wildlife, including jackals, wolves, and bears.
- Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, insufficient breeding coverage, and low conception rates hinder growth.
- Feed and Fodder: Insufficient availability of feed and fodder affects sheep nutrition and productivity.
- Marketing: Unorganized marketing, poor handling, and lack of quality breeds and prophylactic health cover impede development.
Efforts are underway to address these challenges. In 2023, the government of Jammu and Kashmir approved a significant Rs. 329 crore five-year project aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in mutton production and creating 6,000 jobs. This project includes initiatives such as importing high-genetic-merit sheep breeds and increasing lambing percentages.
Nazeer Ahmad Baba’s Inspirational Journey
In the midst of these challenges, Nazeer Ahmad Baba’s story emerges as a beacon of hope and determination. A resident of Awoora in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district, Nazeer is a young visionary who, after completing his matriculation, chose a path of agri-entrepreneurship over conventional jobs in the private and government sectors.
Nazeer’s journey began six years ago when he decided to start his own sheep farm. Faced with financial constraints and unable to secure assistance from the Sheep Husbandry Department, Nazeer took matters into his own hands. In 2017, he realized his dream by establishing his own sheep farm, starting small with just twenty-seven ewes and three rams.
Through sheer dedication and hard work, Nazeer’s flock steadily grew. Today, he proudly owns more than 250 sheep. His commitment saw him construct a separate shed for his farm, with an expenditure of five lakh fifty thousand rupees. Starting with limited resources, Nazeer’s unwavering determination has proven that dedication is often the key to overcoming adversity.
Nazeer’s success in sheep farming has not only transformed his life but also brought employment opportunities to his community. He has employed two local youth on his farm and envisions expanding his business in the coming years, creating more job opportunities.
Nazeer believes in the potential of sheep farming in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that it does not require substantial investment, as rural areas have vast pastures for grazing. Initially met with skepticism from his family, Nazeer’s success has won them over, and they now actively help care for the sheep.
His story serves as an inspiration to countless unemployed, educated youth in the region who, like him, have chosen to take charge of their destinies. His journey reflects the resilience and determination of Kashmiri youth who have faced adversity, including job losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many have sought guidance from Nazeer and established their own sheep farms, heralding a promising future for the sector in Kashmir.
Nazeer advocates for government support for unemployed educated youth, urging the launch of more financial schemes to empower them, reduce unemployment, and contribute positively to society.
In his words, “Since Kashmir happens to be the place where mutton is consumed more than any other place in the country, sheep farming has great prospects and potential in Kashmir. We should not rely on imports but aim to be self-reliant in terms of meat production.”
Nazeer’s journey is not just about economic success but also a reflection of the indomitable spirit of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir. It showcases how, with determination, innovation, and the right support, traditional practices like sheep farming can not only survive but thrive in the modern world.
Conclusion
The enduring tradition of sheep farming in Jammu and Kashmir is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Today, as young entrepreneurs like Nazeer Ahmad Baba embrace this tradition, there is newfound hope and enthusiasm for the future of this sector. With government support and increased investment, sheep farming stands poised to preserve its historic roots and flourish as a symbol of progress and sustainable development in the valley, ensuring that this time-honored legacy thrives for generations to come. Nazeer’s story is a living example of how the traditional and the modern can coexist, creating a brighter future for all.