How former state govt employee set up an idyllic village tourism spot

One can access this lakeside farm through a path lined with palm trees. The farm features a pond where pearl spot and milkfish are raised, shaded by a trellis of vegetables. Pedal boats and small country boats are available for navigating through the pond, while speed boats and traditional boats are offered for lake rides. Small bamboo huts provide spots to relax and enjoy the lake view. Various blooming ornamental plants surround the area.

KT Francis, a retired manager from the Velloor Kerala Paper Products Limited in Alappuzha Nedumprakkad Aryadan Vatukkal, is experimenting with combining fish farming, vegetable cultivation, and village tourism on his 1.5-acre property. Located on the eastern bank of the Nedumprakkad Kuriyamuttam lake, this 1.5-acre land hosts a thriving ecosystem of fish farming, vegetable cultivation, and rural tourism. Francis, after retiring from his managerial position after 10 years, started farming here 10 years ago. Out of the 1.5 acres, 70 cents are dedicated to the pond where pearl spot and milk fish are raised. Nets are placed over the pond to prevent birds from swooping up the fries.

Plants of bitter gourd, snake gourd, ridge gourd, ivy gourd and other climbers planted around the pond and are allowed to grow up into these nets, creating a vegetable canopy over the fish pond. Banana, spinach, green chillies, beans, and other vegetables are also cultivated. He also nurtures pearl spot in floating cages made of GI pipes and nets in the lake. There are four cages housing 1200 pearl spot fries.

Francis, who joined as a civil engineer at KPP (Kerala Paper Products Limited) in Kottayam Velloor, retired after 37 years of service in 2015. Upon returning to his birthplace, his mind was set on farming and fish rearing. Seven years before his retirement, he bought the lakeside land for this purpose. The land, acquired from five different individuals, has been transformed into its present form.

Vegetable cultivation is primarily carried out during the 6-month period when the brackish water doesn't rise. Fish farming happens year-round. People come directly to the farm to buy fish. In addition, people visit to see the farm and spend time enjoying the lake breeze. Facilities are also provided for small groups to enjoy angling, cooking, and socializing, along with boat rides.
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