Most people would not have said “no” to a job in the Kerala State Electricity Board because of the job security it offers. But a Kerala man dared to reject the job offer and chose to stick to farming, which he loved the most. Years have gone by since that crucial decision in the life of Kannur native Manoj Joseph, and many of his batchmates are now Sub Engineers in KSEB.
It was in 2002 that Manoj, who did his diploma in electrical engineering after graduation, decided to refuse the KSEB job to continue with farming, which he learned from his father. Many criticised him for his foolish decision, as he was the eldest son in the family with a lot of responsibilities.
“I knew I was taking a huge risk. But I was confident that farming would give me a life. I grew up seeing my father content with his life as a farmer. I just wanted to follow in his footsteps and live a life close to nature,” 53-year-old Manoj told “Open Digest“.
Today, Manoj earns a good profit through mixed farming on his six acres of land and an additional acre taken on lease. He cultivates 40 varieties of pepper apart from rubber, banana, tapioca and ginger.
“To stay smart in the market, we should grow multiple crops. If one fails, another will fetch a good price in the market,” he added. His years of experience gave him the confidence to start a nursery that sells saplings of pepper and turmeric. He also relies heavily on organic fertilizers for farming.
Manoj also offers training to people on vermicompost preparation, which, according to him, is the most reliable fertiliser for getting a good yield from crops.
“I am really happy that I didn’t opt for the KSEB job. That decision completely changed my life. When I walk into my farm every morning, I feel very proud and happy. For me, farming is not just something to make money from; it’s a way of life,” he added.
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