For Vivek Narayan, farming transcends mere livelihood; it embodies a legacy forged through the sacrifices of his family. A fourth-generation farmer hailing from Viria in Naitasiri, Mr. Narayan’s journey is rooted deeply in the history of his ancestors who made their home in the area following the end of the indentured labor system, establishing a life centered around vegetable farming.
Having received his early education at Viria Public School and later pursuing secondary education at Vunimono High School in Nausori, Mr. Narayan sought to enhance his skills by obtaining a trade certificate in electrical engineering. However, unlike many of his peers who opted for urban careers, he made the deliberate choice to return to his agricultural roots, supporting his parents in their farming endeavors.
“Farming may not look attractive because you get your hands dirty,” he optimistically remarked, “but it is rewarding. You can be your own boss and earn more than what you would get from working in an air-conditioned office.” The freedom that accompanies farming holds equal value for him as the financial benefits it yields.
Owning nine acres of farmland, Mr. Narayan cultivates diverse crops, including French beans, cucumbers, karela, pumpkins, round cabbage, and eggplant. During peak harvest seasons, he employs local laborers to help manage the increased workload. “If you work hard, you will realize that there’s money in farming,” he explained. “There’s nothing without hard labor and sweat. The more you sweat, the more you get.” He emphasizes that disciplined farming, combined with proper time management, can be highly lucrative, citing dalo and ginger as crops with exceptional income potential.
Envisioning the future, Mr. Narayan dreams of expanding his land and investing in machinery to enhance productivity and efficiency. As a father of three, his motivations extend beyond personal achievements; he aspires to secure a brighter future for his children. “Farming will help me invest in my children’s future so they can go to the best schools, get good education, and secure well-paid jobs,” he stated.
While he recognizes that his children might choose different career paths, he remains committed to supporting their decisions. “They may choose not to farm and look for white-collar jobs beyond Viria. But I’ll always be there to support their dreams.”
For those with land but unsure of how to utilize it, Mr. Narayan urges them not to let it go to waste. “If you have land, consider putting it to good use through farming,” he advised. “You will not regret reaping the sacrifices you make.”
Mr. Narayan’s narrative serves as a powerful testament to the idea that farming is not just about cultivating crops. It represents a pathway to independence, transforming land into opportunities that can enrich lives and nurture future generations.
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