Thrissur: For Thomas and his wife Roshni, farming is more than a means of livelihood. It has become a way of life that provides both income and satisfaction. Their farm at Poomala in Thrissur stands out for its diverse range of farming activities, combining livestock, poultry and multiple crops.
A visit to their farm reveals far more than a single crop. Along with chickens, ducks and quails, the farm has pepper, arecanut, coconut, banana, tapioca, vegetables and even small-scale beekeeping.
Thomas turned to farming nearly 20 years ago after returning home from the Gulf. He initially purchased land to establish a livelihood and gradually began experimenting with different farming methods. It was during this period that a team led by Jacob John from the University of Kasaragod visited his farm.
Thomas and Roshni later became part of the National Agricultural Training Programme, which was aimed at encouraging people with an interest in farming and those owning around 50 cents of land. Through the programme, they received farming equipment and planting materials. Around 200 Nendran banana saplings, pepper vines, 200 arecanut saplings and nearly 30 laying hens were among the initial support provided.
Continued assistance from the Agriculture Department and the local Krishi Bhavan also played an important role in expanding their farming activities. Jacob John, who is now the Director of the Kerala Agricultural University in Thrissur, also continued to support their efforts, Thomas said.
Farming Provides Food and Income
“Farming is a peaceful way of life,” Thomas says. He believes that food produced on one’s own farm is also beneficial for a healthy lifestyle.
The farm now has around 200 laying hens. The couple also purchases day-old chicks and raises them on the farm. Ducks are reared using a similar method.
The farm produces an average of around 160 eggs a day. The eggs are sold at different shops twice a week, while the couple has also found a market through AgroBazaar of the Kerala Agricultural University.
Along with production, Thomas and Roshni give considerable attention to finding a reliable market for their products.
Vegetable cultivation is another important part of the farm. They grow crops such as tomato and okra using seedlings supplied by the Krishi Bhavan. During the pepper harvest, they bring in additional workers whenever necessary.
A Farm That Proves Hard Work Has Value
Thomas believes that farming can provide a good income for those who are genuinely interested in it. According to him, one’s attitude towards agriculture often determines whether it can become a successful livelihood.
“People should love farming. If one has the health and willingness to work sincerely, farming can be a good source of livelihood,” Thomas says.
He believes that people must first recognise the dignity associated with every profession. His farm conveys the message that agriculture should not be viewed merely as hard labour, but as an occupation capable of providing income as well as a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
Thomas also points out that pest control can be managed through the use of organic fertilisers and that farmers can seek necessary guidance from Krishi Bhavans. His experience demonstrates that scientific knowledge, proper farm management and an understanding of the market are essential for success in agriculture.
Roshni Finds Quick Returns Through Quail Farming
Quail farming is one of the major attractions of the farm. According to Roshni, quail farming has an advantage over poultry farming as it can generate returns within a shorter period.
The couple purchases four-week-old quails, which begin laying eggs within about two weeks. Around 100 quails can produce nearly 80 eggs a day. The eggs are sold at around ₹3 each.
However, Roshni advises prospective farmers to secure a market before starting quail farming. Without a clear plan for where the eggs will be sold, she warns, farmers could face losses.
Encouraging the Next Generation to Farm
For Thomas and Roshni, farming is no longer simply a job. It has become an integral part of their lives, providing both income and personal satisfaction.
By combining multiple crops and livestock activities on the same farm, the couple has created several sources of income from a relatively small holding.
Thomas believes the younger generation should take an interest in agriculture and develop a strong work ethic. Their farm at Poomala stands as an example of how interest in farming, scientific knowledge, hard work and the ability to identify markets can transform even a small plot of land into a sustainable source of income.
