The Farmers’ Association for Resource Management (FARM), a society of farmers at Maruthonkara in Thottilpalam, is one of the most reliable sources of fresh vegetables for the natives of Kuttiady, Vadakara, Valayam and Thottilpalam. The man behind this successful venture is not your average farmer, but a noted paediatrician in Kuttiady, Dr D Sachith.
The farmers’ society was formed around four-years back with the support of villagers to assist children with dyslexia (a learning impairment).
Farming is not the main source of livelihood for the members in the farming society. “From my observations, I came to realise that there were plenty of smart persons around us struggling with dyslexia,” said doctor. He further said, “Though they found reading and writing difficult, they displayed an interest in other fields like agriculture and sports. If we can properly channel their interests it would be a great benefit for the society,” he said.
He adds. “When I thought of a project for the welfare of dyslexia students, I found farming wonderful,” said Dr Sachith, who runs a centre in Kuttiady for dyslexia students. To realise his idea he contacted natives with a flair for farming, in Maruthonkara. They happily extended their support.
The farm produces vegetables like ladies finger, brinjal, cabbage, watermelon, cucumber, red spinach, bitter gourd and tomato in the 13-acre vegetable garden.
At times, he brings his children along to the farm to make them acquainted with the various activities associated with farming.
Every year he organises workshops on the farm land for selected 40 students from the nearby schools. He attributes the success of the farming venture to the efforts and support provided by the members of FARM.
Ten members of the society along with their wives were alone responsible for undertaking the works from levelling the soil to harvesting.
According to him, only those who can enjoy farming can take up farming. “Though I am a doctor by profession, I take up farming since it is one of the few trades that give me pleasure,” he said.
He sets aside time in the evening from his busy schedule to water the vegetable in the 13-acre land.