IKON
Sai Ramakrishna Karuturi, Founder and Managing Director of Karuturi Global Ltd, is widely recognized as the pioneer of the global cut flower revolution. Under his leadership, Karuturi Global has become the world’s largest producer of cut roses, thanks to his strategic identification of Kenya and Ethiopia as key hubs for rose cultivation and export. Mr. Karuturi played a crucial role in acquiring 311,000 hectares of land in Ethiopia to advance the company’s agricultural production. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (with honors) from Bangalore University and an MBA (with Dean’s Honors) from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio.
Nearly all of Karuturi Global’s produce is exported to high-value markets, including Holland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Bahrain, Muscat, Dubai, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Brunei, and North America, with a small portion sold in India.
What is this job all about?
Horticulture and floriculture involve cultivating plants, vegetables, flowers, fruits, herbs, shrubs, and bushes for commercial or medicinal purposes. This field also includes landscaping gardens, maintaining nurseries, and managing greenhouses, orchards, and plantations.
Can I go for it?
If you have a passion for plants and are willing to put in the effort, this field offers significant potential. You can start by growing vegetables in a garden or expand into commercial ventures such as cultivating Anthuriums or Orchids. The local climate is particularly suited for Orchid and Anthurium plantations, and mushroom cultivation is also a profitable option.
Many small businesses have emerged along major highways, selling seasonal plants, vegetables, flowers, and fruits. A notable success story is Rosario De Silva from Sinquetim, Salcete. After completing a vocational program in agriculture at the 10+2 level, he entered commercial floriculture. His 100 sq.m. shade net cultivation of Gerbera flowers represents the first successful Gerbera cultivation venture in Goa.
Is there a future in this Job?
India is the second-largest producer of vegetables and fruits globally and has a robust floriculture sector. The country is also the leading exporter of spices and cashews. The development of improved varieties and hybrids of fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, medicinal and aromatic plants, flowers, ornamental crops, spices, cashews, and oil palm offers significant production potential and export value.
Goa, renowned for its natural beauty, has become a sought-after destination for tourists. The many 4-star and 5-star hotels, with their meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flower arrangements, enhance the aesthetic appeal and add a touch of elegance and charm to the area.
Where to study?
In Goa
• After Std. X: Enroll in the Vocational Stream in Horticulture, a two-year program. For further studies, join Yeshwantrao Chavan Open University, with Saraswat College in Mapusa serving as a local center.
• Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ela Farm, Old Goa, offers various horticulture training courses, including a short course in mushroom cultivation. Visit ICAR for more details – https://ccari.icar.gov.in/
• Floriculture: Starting a modest floriculture venture requires an investment of around ₹1 lakh, with the Government providing a 25% subsidy. Additional schemes are available through the Agriculture Department.
• Short-Term Courses: If a full-time program seems too extensive, consider short-term courses offered by the Agriculture Department, St. Xavier’s College in Mapusa, or Ela Farm in Old Goa.
• Entrepreneurship Program: The Padre Agnel Institute in Verna offers an Entrepreneurship Program that covers business management techniques and guidance on obtaining loans from various government authorities.
• Higher Studies: For advanced education, a degree in Agricultural Science is offered at Ela Farm in Old Goa.
Outside Goa
B.Sc (Agriculture)
• Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (affiliated with NAAC)
• Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra (affiliated with AICTE, NAAC, UGC)
• K. K. Wagh College of Agriculture, Nashik, Maharashtra (affiliated with AICTE)
Employment/Business Opportunities:
Job openings exist in both government organizations and private vegetable and fruit companies. Alternatively, you can start your own business, offering contracts to maintain lawns and gardens for hotels and other establishments.
Monetary Potential:
Starting salaries range from ₹7,500 to ₹10,000 per month, with the potential to earn significantly more as you gain experience and professionalism. Running your own business offers even greater financial rewards.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024