KOCHI: A 28-year-old tenant farmer from West Bengal, Milan Sheikh, has become a remarkable example in the field of agriculture. Amidst reports of farmer losses in Kerala, Milan stands out focusing solely on counting profits. His agricultural endeavours predominantly involve exporting most of the crops grown.

Hailing from Gokulchak, West Bengal, Milan arrived in Ernakulam at the age of fifteen to visit a friend. His livelihood became centered around farming. Currently, he leases 50 acres of land across various locations in Ernakulam district primarily cultivating banana, cassava and intercropped vegetables.

In 2010, Milan made a clandestine trip to Ernakulam without informing his family using funds provided by his friend Babu who was involved in farming in Nedumbassery. Despite searching for employment, he was turned down due to concerns about exploiting a 15-year-old. Eventually, a farmer in Aluva offered him work at a daily wage of 150 rupees. After a year, he transitioned to another location mastering the farming techniques prevalent in Kerala.

In 2019, armed with savings of Rs 15,000 and funds secured by selling his mother's gold, Milan leased land to kick start his farming venture. As he harvested bananas and cassava, he expanded to lease more land. Presently, he cultivates 50 acres across Nedumbassery, Desam, Sreemulanagaram, Chengamanad and Devagiri. With an annual turnover exceeding one crore, over half of the earnings are reinvested into agriculture. He employs more than 25 people including locals.

Milan attributes his success to his unwavering dedication to agriculture resisting an offer to work in the construction sector for a wage of 350 rupees. His day starts at 7 am and extends to 5 pm filled with cultivation, fertilization and harvesting tasks. His future aspirations involve establishing an exporting company for agricultural produce before considering marriage. His ultimate dream is to acquire a house and settle in Kerala.

"Everyone should recognize the significance of agriculture. With sincere efforts, substantial income can be generated from farming," states Milan Sheikh.