The ambition to build an enterprise of his own had long been part of Dinesh's life. Even while working as a driver ferrying newspapers to distribution centres, TK Dinesh, a native of Manassery in Kozhikode, was constantly scanning the horizon for new opportunities. However, uncertainty over the right sector and the nature of the venture held him back.

A decisive shift came when he quit newspaper distribution and took up work as a product distributor with the Vazhakkulam Agro and Fruit Processing Company, a quasi-government institution. There, Dinesh gained first-hand insight into the vast potential of the food processing sector. Rather than hastily launching a unit by relying on loans, he opted for a measured approach, focusing first on building expertise through in-depth learning and practical training.

The spice processing incubation facility at the Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode gave wings to Dinesh's entrepreneurial dreams. It was there that he discovered the wide range of products that could be made from nutmeg rind, a part often discarded as waste. He decided that this would be his first product.

After receiving training from IISR in the value addition of nutmeg rind, he obtained the necessary licences and began pilot-level production of products such as syrup, jam, candy and pickle made from nutmeg rind. Soon, he expanded the market for these products under the brand name Al-Dina Homemade.

By participating in various agricultural fairs, including the Vaiga fair organised by the State Agriculture Department, Dinesh was able to reach a wider customer base, which gradually ensured a steady income. Over time, he diversified into other products such as ginger squash, virgin coconut oil and tender coconut ice cream.

Dinesh believes that success is assured when one ventures into entrepreneurship with meticulous planning and the right preparation. Contact Dinesh at: 8078730229; Dr P V Alphia- 9995787015