The Economic Times

Gulf returnee grows organic lemon instead of rubber in Kerala, earns nearly Rs 13 lakh during peak season

After spending decades abroad in the Gulf, Rajan Mathew returned to his roots in Kerala and embarked on a new venture: lemon farming. He transformed his family's rubber tree plantation into a vibrant lemon orchard featuring different varieties. As the pandemic fueled local demand, he began selling directly to consumers, illustrating a growing trend among Kerala farmers who are pivoting to alternative crops for improved economic viability.