In the coconut-growing landscapes of Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, where nearly 15,000 hectares are under coconut cultivation, farmers have long struggled with a critical challenge — the shortage of skilled coconut climbers. Traditional climbing methods were risky, physically demanding, and time-consuming. At the same time, wages were rising and many rural youth were unaware that coconut climbing, when combined with modern technology and proper training, could become a profitable and respectable enterprise.
This was the situation when Mr. Ramasamy from Thanampatti village began his journey — a journey that would not only transform his own life but also inspire hundreds of rural youth

Life Before the Turning Point

In the heart of Thanampatti village, Mr. Ramasamy depended on his 5-acre farm, along with two cows and about 15 goats and sheep, to support his family. However, agriculture alone did not provide assured income. Like many others, he struggled with uncertainty and financial instability.
To supplement his earnings, he used to climb coconut trees manually. With great effort and risk, he climbed 20 to 30 trees per day and earned only ₹300 to ₹450. The work was exhausting, hazardous, and the income was barely sufficient to meet his family’s needs.
He knew he needed a better opportunity — but he did not know where to find it

KVK Intervention: A Life-Changing Opportunity

In 2012, Mr. Ramasamy approached ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Krishnagiri, seeking guidance. Recognizing the growing demand for skilled coconut climbers and the potential for rural entrepreneurship, KVK, in collaboration with the Coconut Development Board (CDB), Regional Office, Chennai, organized specialized skill training programs on the use of coconut tree climbing machines.

KVK Conducted

20 batches of residential and non-residential trainings covering 400 rural youth
developed 20 Master Trainers.
Provided vocational training to 60 SC youth under the SCSP scheme.
Supplied climbing machines and insurance support to trainees.
These interventions aimed not just to train climbers, but to create entrepreneurs.
Mr. Ramasamy enrolled in a six-day residential training program at KVK — a decision that would redefine his future.

Transformation Through Skill and Technology

After completing the training and receiving a coconut tree climbing machine, Mr. Ramasamy’s productivity and income increased dramatically. Instead of climbing 20–30 trees manually, he could now climb up to 50 trees safely and efficiently.
His daily earnings increased to:

₹1,000 per day locally

₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per day in outstation work

His average annual income reached around ₹2,00,000. He also started working in other districts and states, including Mandya and Mysore in Karnataka, where he worked for 15–20 days per month and earned up to ₹30,000 per month. For the first time in his life, he experienced financial stability and dignity in his profession.

From Trainee to Master Trainer

Mr. Ramasamy’s success did not stop with personal progress. With his dedication and expertise, he became a Master Trainer under KVK.
He trained more than 180 youth in various KVKs, including:

Tirunelveli

Tiruvannamalai

Ariyalur

He not only trained them but also helped them secure climbing machines and guided them to start their own businesses. He created employment opportunities for many rural youth, often taking them along for climbing work and sharing his income with them. His journey became a source of hope and empowerment for others

Impact of KVK Skill Training Programs

The coconut climber training program of KVK, Krishnagiri, created a remarkable impact in the district:

• More than 50 direct entrepreneurs developed
• Over 100 rural youth independently purchased climbing machines
• 183 coconut climbing machines sold through KVK
• 12,000 farmers benefited, covering 4,200 hectares

This intervention not only solved the labour shortage but also created sustainable rural livelihoods.

A Beacon of Hope for Rural Youth

Today, Mr. Ramasamy earns ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per day and lives with dignity and confidence. What once was a struggle has now become a successful enterprise.
Speaking about his journey, Mr. Ramasamy expresses heartfelt gratitude to KVK, Krishnagiri and the Coconut Development Board: “The training completely changed my life. I moved from uncertainty to stability. Today, I am not only supporting my family but also helping many rural youth build their future.”

Climbing Towards a Better Future

Mr. Ramasamy’s story is a powerful example of how skill training, technology, and institutional support can transform lives. From an uncertain farmer struggling for income to a successful entrepreneur and Master Trainer, his journey truly represents “Climbing Towards Success.” His story continues to inspire hundreds of rural youth, proving that with the right opportunity, guidance, and determination, even the tallest challenges can be climbed.