Prasad, a postgraduate, chose farming over a government job. He cultivates 100+ native and high-yielding vegetable saplings, inspiring others with his dedication to agriculture.
Prasad (69), a postgraduate in English Literature and Political Science, gave up a promising career to fully dedicate himself to farming in Thamarakulam. A passionate advocate for agriculture, he has also made a significant impact in sandalwood cultivation, establishing plantations in 12 different locations across Thamarakulam Panchayat. He sources saplings from Marayoor, plants them, and provides guidance to fellow farmers in the area. After spending five years working in the Gulf, Prasad returned home, realising that his true calling lay in agriculture.
Despite securing seventh rank in politics, Prasad's heart remained firmly with farming, prompting him to turn down a position with the Forest Department. On his land, he cultivates over 100 varieties of native and high-yielding vegetable saplings, sourcing seeds from leading producers. His garden flourishes with a wide range of vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants, including cucumber, snake gourd, bitter gourd, okra, ivy gourd, banana, spinach, red lady papaya, various types of chillies, and an array of fruit varieties.
Educating farmers
He also produces organic fertilisers on his farm, which has become a popular destination for customers seeking high-quality saplings. Prasad supplies saplings for government schemes across the state, and award-winning farmers often seek his expert guidance. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, he expanded into seed and sapling production and sales. In addition to his agricultural pursuits, Prasad, who also has experience in construction, finds time to conduct agricultural classes in schools, sharing his knowledge and passion for farming with the next generation.
Love for farming
A strong advocate for farmers, Prasad has memorised most agricultural texts. He once managed the state's second hi-tech farm and now sells his produce through his own shop. A passionate reader, his personal collection spans world literature and agricultural texts, with separate shelves dedicated to each. Prasad’s life revolves around his love for farming, reading, and books. He is married to Prasanna. They have two children: Pravda, a scientist based in Norway, and Preena, a BTech graduate.
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