Tanveer Hussain
Budgam, Oct 06: In an inspiring address at a community interaction in Beerwah, noted educationist and social activist Manjeet Singh Gill emphasized that farming is not merely a profession but the very foundation of Kashmir’s culture and economy. He said agriculture is the true heritage of Kashmiris, binding them to their roots and shaping their collective identity.
Gill underlined that the orchards, fields, and saffron farms of Kashmir are not just sources of livelihood but symbols of resilience and cultural continuity. “Farming is our heritage, and it must be preserved with pride and responsibility. It is not only about crops and fruits, but about our identity, our culture, and our survival,” he said.
Reflecting on the region’s history, Gill explained that Kashmir’s rich culture is inseparably tied to farming. From the world-famous saffron fields of Pampore, to the apple orchards of Shopian, and the paddy fields of Budgam and Baramulla, agriculture has been the lifeblood of the Valley for centuries.
He said collective farming practices, harvest festivals, and traditions of cooperation were once powerful symbols of Kashmiri unity. “Our fields tell the story of our ancestors. Every orchard, every grain of rice, and every fruit we grow carries the legacy of hard work and resilience,” Gill remarked.
Expressing concern over modern lifestyle trends, Gill highlighted how Kashmiri youth are increasingly becoming disconnected from their roots. Instead of engaging in productive activities, many are drawn into excessive use of mobile phones, gadgets, and online distractions.
“The young generation must realize that while technology is useful, it should not take them away from the real wealth of life our land and our heritage. Farming is our identity. It cannot be ignored in the name of modernization,” he stressed.
Gill urged the youth to strike a balance between adopting modern technology and staying grounded in their traditional values. “Our future will be safe only if our fields remain alive. Without agriculture, Kashmir’s identity will lose its essence,” he said.
Encouraging the youth to embrace both tradition and innovation, Gill suggested that modern irrigation systems, organic farming, mechanization, and eco-friendly methods must be introduced without discarding the age-old wisdom passed down by ancestors.
“We must combine tradition with modernity. Sustainable farming not only ensures food security but also protects Kashmir’s fragile ecosystem. If we adopt smart solutions while respecting our culture, we can make Kashmiri agriculture a global example of sustainability,” he said.
Speaking as a representative of the Sikh community of Beerwah, Gill emphasized that Kashmiri Sikhs have always played a significant role in farming and community development. He said farming has been treated as a sacred duty, not just a livelihood.
“Whether Sikh, Muslim, or Hindu, agriculture has united us all as Kashmiris. Farming is the cultural fabric that binds our communities together,” he noted.
Call to Policymakers and Educators Gill also urged policymakers, social leaders, and educational institutions to prioritize agriculture in their programs and planning. He called for government support in providing subsidies, modern training workshops, and easy access to farming equipment.
He appealed to schools and colleges to include cultural awareness and agriculture-related subjects in their curriculum so that students grow up respecting their heritage.
Concluding his address, Gill delivered a heartfelt message:“Our heritage is our strength, and farming is its heart. Agriculture is not just an occupation—it is our culture, our pride, and our future. If we lose farming, we lose ourselves.”
He urged Kashmiri youth to rise above distractions, reconnect with their soil, and take pride in being custodians of a centuries-old tradition.
