Thalayolaparambu: A former expatriate has transformed barren land into a thriving pineapple plantation, reaping a bumper harvest in the process. Kevin Kuruvila Kuryachan of Kollamparambil House, a mechanical engineer with years of experience working abroad, has now set a remarkable example with his successful agricultural venture.

Returning to his native village in 2023, Kevin started pineapple farming on a trial basis, cultivating just one acre of land next to his house. The yield exceeded all expectations, encouraging him to expand the crop to nearly eight acres of fallow land.

Kevin currently employs five workers to manage the plantation. While most of his produce is sold in other states, he notes that ongoing global conflicts have affected the export of pineapple by-products. Despite a slight dip in prices, Kevin emphasises that he has not faced any financial losses from the venture.

Kevin’s wife, Cristy, a graphic designer, provides unwavering support for his farming endeavors. Besides pineapples, the couple have manages rubber and paddy cultivation.