This CCTV-monitored organic farm in Kerala supplies vegetables to Malayali expats

There is a hearsay that non-resident Malayalis celebrate Onam and Vishu with more enthusiasm than those living in Kerala. For them, the cucumbers for this Vishu came from Bijesh's farm. Along with cucumbers, small pumpkins and bottle gourds were also sent from his farm. The native pea and ladies' fingers for the Vishu Sadya were also a pleasant sight for sore eyes. Bijesh Krishna, from Mala in Thrissur, is a farmer who exports vegetables not only during Vishu season but throughout the year.

The need for pesticide-free vegetables
Bijesh, who worked abroad for a long time, returned 12 years ago and was compelled to stay home. During his time abroad in Dubai, he was actively involved in expatriate communities along with his friend and relative Praveen Kottavadi, also in Dubai. Praveen was actively involved in kitchen gardening in Dubai. Pesticides in vegetables from outside the country were a concern, not just in Kerala but also in the Gulf. Worried about the presence of pesticides in fruits and vegetables arriving from Kerala, Praveen not only started his cultivation but also helped others set up kitchen gardens.

The question arose within the expatriate community whether Bijesh, upon returning home, could source and send organic vegetables and fruits to the Gulf. Upon his return to Kerala, Bijesh began working towards this. He visited numerous farms, discussed with farmers, and started sourcing and sending organic vegetables. Praveen also took on the responsibility of creating a WhatsApp group for expatriate friends and delivering the vegetables in kits to Malayali homes in the UAE based on orders received.

Nature Beats
Both emphasize that from the beginning, their focus has been on the reliability of the organic produce, not just on organic certification. To make this reliability more transparent, Bijesh soon started farming directly on six and a half acres in Malappuram. He also enabled expatriate customers to view the farming practices through CCTV footage. The venture, which gained popularity among UAE Malayalis and even Arabs through organic vegetable kits, launched its marketing outlet in Dubai two years ago under the name 'Nature Beats,' along with home delivery. Today, Nature Beats is a favourite fruit and vegetable store among UAE Malayalis.

Year-round cultivation
Bijesh admits to some initial setbacks due to the lack of experience. The main problem was low production in organic farming using only organic fertilizers. Another issue was weed control. Mulching solved the weed problem. Production increased when high-quality organic fertilizers were applied meticulously. The farming system allows for the export of all types of vegetables throughout the year. Instead of cultivating one type in large quantities, each variety is grown on 5-10 cents of land. By the time one batch is harvested, the next is ready for harvest.

The banana cultivation follows the same pattern. Carrots, beetroot, and other vegetables that cannot be grown locally are sourced from organic farms in Vattavada. In addition to vegetables and bananas, he also collects and supplies high-quality jackfruit, mangoes, pineapples, and black plum - fruits that are sought after by expatriate Malayalis.
Phone: 9539358787 (Bijesh), 000971558945601 (Praveen)