Retirement isn’t the end: Kerala couple earns tax-free income through smart farming

For many, retirement often marks the end of a career. But this couple in Kerala saw it as an opportunity to pursue their passion for farming and earn a tax-free income. Premjith C N, 64, and his wife Ajitha K, 60, have defied conventional wisdom by turning their two acres of land into a thriving agricultural enterprise, earning money through innovative mixed and select farming techniques.

After decades of dedicated government service in Kerala, Premjith and Ajitha of Chathannoor in Kollam were not content with a life of leisure in their retirement. Instead, they saw an opportunity to pursue their passion for agriculture and contribute to the agricultural sector of their community.

Instead of blindly taking up any crop for farming, the couple did thorough research on which farm products were in high demand during specific times and what would grow well during specific seasons. They devised a strategy that involved mixed farming, combining the cultivation of multiple crops and livestock rearing.

“We saw retirement as an opportunity for a new beginning rather than an end. Farming has always been our passion, and we wanted to make the most of our land to create a sustainable and profitable enterprise,” Premjith told “Open Digest“.

The couple planned their farm layout, allocating space for various crops such as plantain, tapioca, cucumber, and cabbage, as well as an aquaculture farm, a poultry farm, and a cow.

They implemented organic farming practices and utilised modern irrigation techniques to optimise water usage and crop yields. “We look at the market trend and cultivate crops accordingly. We only do banana farming ahead of Onam season and cultivate cauliflower only during the winter season. We have seen remarkable success doing mixed and rotational farming,” said Premjith.

“Our farm not only provides us with a steady income but also allows us to contribute to the local economy and promote sustainable agriculture,” he said. Both Premjith and Ajitha spend considerable time each day taking care of the crops, and they have some advice for those who get into farming.

“You need to work in the farm to make it more profitable. We have only a full time labourer to help us. We work along with him in the farm,” Premjith said.

The couple’s story serves as an inspiration to retirees and aspiring farmers alike, demonstrating that retirement is not the end of one’s career but an opportunity for reinvention and exploration.