This Tiruchy man values greenery more than the lure of big bucks

While cultivable lands have been fast changing into construction plots due to the high returns in terms of money, the love of farming of a 77-year-old Srinivasan, a resident of Puthur Agraharam has kept the greenery intact. 

Still following the avowed profession of his forefathers, this man has been cultivating paddy in an area of 10 acres of which 2.5 acres was situated on the main road which houses many residential areas in the city. A sq. ft. in the locality can easily cost between Rs 8,000 to Rs 9,000. He feels that the yield from the farm was more supporting and satisfying than the lure of the money. 

“This is my land and it is not for sale,” where the first words he uttered when approached.  

“I inherited the property of 10 acres in Srinivasan Nagar in 1970. Till today, I have been undertaking agriculture successfully. It had displeased many real estate businessmen in the city. But I am contented with what I am doing,” Srinivasan said.  

As every other land lord in the vicinity, Srinivasan was also approached by many men including politicians to part with his land, especially the 2.5 acres on the main road. But they were turned away promptly by the farmer who loves his profession. “I was never afraid of anything and anyone and faced every threat courageously,” he said. 

“My friends, who gave their lands for constructing huge apartments and gave them for rent are not satisfied. I learnt from them where true satisfaction lies. Now they are down with various ailments. They are regulars to the hospitals while I am a regular to my field. I am healthier and happier,” he beamed. He used to visit his land thrice in a day.  

“I produce food for my entire family as I cultivate two crops a year. And it gives me satisfaction which cannot be received from anything,” Srinivasan said. Now, he has been raising Andhra Ponni, which is 130-day crop, the harvest has been fixed for January 20. 

Asked how he is managing the water shortage, Srinivasan said “I use pump sets, treat the sewage water and use the same for cultivation. I get nearly 43 bags of rice in an acre. Just multiply it by 10. What else does one need,” asked a contented Srinivasan standing on his lush field.