Jammu and Kashmir, once known for its history of extremism and separatism, is now witnessing a remarkable shift towards development and entrepreneurial ventures. A testament to this transformation emerges from the border village of Chillyari in the Samba district, where two friends in their 60s have embarked on an unprecedented and enthusiastic initiative: pearl farming.
Situated on the zero line between India and Pakistan, Chillyari village has long been a hotspot for border tensions, caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflicts. However, amidst the backdrop of uncertainty and strife, Desraj and Yashpaul, former public servants turned visionaries, have defied the odds by nurturing a venture that not only promises economic prosperity but also symbolizes resilience and hope.
The journey began when Desraj stumbled upon videos of pearl farming on YouTube, igniting a spark of curiosity and ambition. Enlisting the support of his trusted friend Yashpaul, the duo embarked on a quest for knowledge, traversing the length and breadth of the region to learn the intricacies of pearl cultivation.
Undeterred by the challenges posed by their borderland location, the two friends forged ahead with unwavering determination. Armed with a blend of traditional wisdom and modern techniques, they transformed an oxygenated pond into a sanctuary for cultivating pearls, deftly navigating the complexities of shellfish husbandry.
Their perseverance bore fruit as they secured a partnership with a Noida-based company, which provided invaluable technical expertise and guidance. Despite facing setbacks and unforeseen obstacles along the way, Desraj and Yashpaul remained steadfast in their pursuit, fueled by a shared vision of prosperity and progress for their community.
Reportedly, with an investment of approximately ₹35 lakh and the introduction of over 1.4 lakh mussels into their pond, the duo stands on the brink of a momentous achievement. As the first yields of pearls approach fruition, anticipation runs high in Chillyari village, signaling the dawn of a new era of economic vitality and innovation.
Beyond the realm of traditional pearl farming, Desraj and Yashpaul are trailblazing new frontiers by experimenting with culturing pearls in the shapes of revered deities such as Lord Ganesha, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva. Their innovative approach not only showcases their creativity but also reflects their deep-rooted reverence for their cultural heritage.
The initiative has not gone unnoticed, earning accolades from local authorities and community members alike. Samba deputy magistrate Abhishek Sharma lauded the friends’ initiative as a beacon of hope and inspiration, with the potential to serve as a model for sustainable entrepreneurship in the region.
Essentially, the latest initiative is just one of many endeavours that J&K is witnessing in the recent years. As the mindset of people is changing and shifting towards the bright future, it is not too far when J&K would compete wit other states and UTs in the categories of robust entrepreneurial base and thriving economies in India.