Priyanka
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Srinagar: A spinal injury created physical barriers for Muhammad Zubair in Fateh Kadal, an old city in Srinagar, but he did not let these barriers stop him from pursuing his dreams of poultry farming. His mealworm farm in Kashmir, which is the first of its kind in the valley, has not only turned out to be economically beneficial but is also making a unique impact in the sphere of organic farming and poultry.
Zubair, 45, was previously a successful businessman, but by the time he underwent multiple spine surgeries, he was left with numerous physical obstacles that forced him to seek alternative means of sustaining himself. In 2022, he discovered mealworms, which promised reliable returns without much work and turned into his answer.
“Before starting the mealwoorms farm I had zero knowledge of insect farming. But through research and hard work, I figured out how to successfully rear them. I aimed to accomplish something different that was profitable and could be managed from home,” Zubair said.
He began his journey by purchasing 1,000 mealworms from a Delhi farm. His farm which has now turned into a reputable provider of live mealworms for organic growers and poultry producers in the valley depicts the success he has achieved. These farmers depend on the high nutritional value of mealworms to keep their livestock healthy and increase their produce.
Minuscule in size, yet powerful in action, the mealworm— the larvae of the darkling beetle— is a crucial component in both agriculture and the food web. These creatures are rich in protein as well as beneficial fats, which makes them an excellent source of food for fish, birds as well as pet reptiles. Mealworms are also gaining popularity in organic farming beyond animal feed due to the fact that they can be fed to livestock and their excretion, known as frass, contains valuable nutrients for the soil.
Zubair’s business runs… differently and simpler than most, without the hassle of unnecessary complications. “Instead of selling by weight, I sell each worm for three rupees. A few customers buy 5,000 at once while others purchase around 10,000,” he explained.
His success has been commendable, but Zubair wishes to push himself. To further scale the business, he dreams of switching to a dried mealworm farm. Unfortunately, he is still awaiting the permission for registration from SKUAST Kashmir. Until he gets that, there’s only so much that he can do.
“Through this farm, I have been able to provide for my family, making it easier for me to live life. I hope to help pioneer a new industry in Kashmir. If I was able to do this, I hope it inspires others who are struggling,” he said.
