IT Professional Transforms into Successful Paddy Farming Entrepreneur, Launched Own Rice Brand

Sameer P., a former IT professional from Mannar in Alappuzha, Kerala, embarked on an unexpected journey into paddy farming in 2019.

His transformation from a seasoned IT expert to a successful paddy farming entrepreneur is truly remarkable. It all began with a 20-acre leased plot of land in Gramam, near Chengannur, where Sameer went into rice cultivation as an experiment. What started as a simple trial soon turned into a burning passion, leading him to leave behind his high-paying tech job to expand his paddy farming business.

Sameer's dedication to agriculture deepened over time, and he steadily increased his cultivation acreage to 60 acres and eventually to an impressive 320 acres. His commitment to quality and innovation extended beyond cultivation, as he launched his own Pokkali rice brand, 'Gramam,' which has garnered recognition for its exceptional quality. Sameer's agricultural journey extends to international trade, as he has successfully exported 'puttupodi' to the United Arab Emirates.

Sameer's shift from the IT sector to paddy farming was not merely a change in the profession; it was a purposeful career pivot driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. After a decade of experience in the IT industry, including a stint as an IT manager in Saudi Arabia, Sameer felt a yearning for a more fulfilling career path. He eloquently describes his turning point, stating, "After returning to Kerala in 2018, I launched my IT firm with a head office in Chennai before turning to rice farming."

In 2019, while his IT business was thriving, he noticed an idle paddy field near his home in Gramam. The sight of the uncultivated land sparked his interest, and he decided to lease it, embarking on a rice farming experiment while continuing to manage his IT business.

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The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 prompted Sameer to make a significant decision – he expanded his farming operation to 60 acres. Recognizing the immense potential and calling of agriculture, he entrusted his IT business to a relative to fully dedicate himself to farming. His unwavering determination propelled him forward, even when faced with adversity, such as the flood-related challenges that affected the 60-acre farmland.

When floodwaters threatened to disrupt his agricultural pursuits, Sameer displayed remarkable resilience. He decided to relocate his farming operations to Pattanakkad, near Cherthala. The support of Agriculture Minister V.S. Sunil Kumar played a crucial role in securing the land and facilitating the relocation. Starting with 120 acres on lease, Sameer expanded his cultivation to an impressive 320 acres.

Despite his remarkable success, Sameer acknowledges that climate change has emerged as a significant challenge for farmers worldwide. Recent floods in September led to crop losses, underscoring the unpredictability of weather patterns. However, Sameer remains prepared for such situations, as his crops are insured, and he has a plan to recover by sowing anew.

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Sameer's rice cultivation is not limited to the Pokkali variety. He also cultivates the Uma variety, expanding the diversity of rice production in the region. Under the 'Gramam' brand, he processes and markets both Pokkali rice and rice-based products. Additionally, the Uma variety finds its way to Supplyco, contributing to the region's agricultural diversity.

Sameer's approach to farming is visionary and incorporates technology to enhance efficiency. He employs drones for nutrient and biopesticide spraying, a technique that not only saves time but also improves crop yields. His forward-thinking practices extend beyond his agricultural pursuits, as he contributes to preventing flooding in the area. His innovative approach makes him a model farmer for others to emulate.

His success story, rooted in resilience and innovation, serves as an inspiring example for both budding and experienced farmers alike. His story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to adapt, even the most unexpected paths can lead to extraordinary success.

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