Goa, June 28 -- At a time when many are leaving agriculture behind, John Fernandes of Karemoddi, Curchorem, has become a beacon of hope and inspiration by transforming unproductive land into a thriving farm.

For the past seven years, Fernandes has successfully cultivated watermelons in the summer and ladyfingers (bhende) during the monsoon, demonstrating that farming can still be sustainable and rewarding.

Originally employed in government service, Fernandes left his job to start a truck transport business. But after the Goa mining ban, he lost both his enterprise and income. His life took a new direction during a visit to Pune, where he was inspired by farms flourishing with watermelons and ladyfingers. Determined to begin again, he re...