K.V. Sanjeev, born on May 15, 1960, in Vaikom, a rural village in Kottayam district, Kerala, has built a distinguished career rooted in agricultural science, public service, and community development. With over three decades of dedicated service in the Kerala Agricultural Department, Sanjeev has contributed significantly to rural development and agricultural extension, later transitioning into farming and literary pursuits after his retirement.
He pursued his undergraduate studies in Agricultural Sciences at Kerala Agricultural University, completing his B.Sc. (Agriculture) in 1982. Driven by a passion for advancing agricultural knowledge and outreach, he went on to complete his postgraduate studies in Agricultural Extension at the Horticultural College, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, in 1986. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his long and impactful career in the public sector.
He began his professional journey as an Agricultural Officer in the Kerala Agricultural Department. Over the years, he served in various districts across the state, gaining extensive field experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by farmers, particularly in rural areas. His work primarily focused on agricultural extension activities, where he played a crucial role in disseminating modern farming techniques, improving crop productivity, and supporting farmers through advisory services.
Throughout his career, he actively participated in numerous development initiatives aimed at strengthening the agricultural ecosystem in Kerala. He held several leadership positions, contributing to policy implementation and grassroots-level execution of government programs. His ability to bridge the gap between research and practical application made him a respected figure among both peers and the farming community.
After more than 30 years of service, he retired in 2016 as the Deputy Director of Agriculture in Malappuram district. His tenure in this senior role was marked by effective leadership and a continued commitment to improving agricultural practices and rural livelihoods. Even after retirement, his dedication to agriculture did not diminish; instead, it took on a more personal and hands-on dimension.
Post-retirement, he turned to active farming, cultivating crops such as paddy, banana, and vegetables on his own land. His transition from administrative leadership to practical farming reflects his enduring connection to the land and his belief in sustainable agriculture. Through his work, he continues to demonstrate the importance of applying scientific knowledge to real-world farming practices.
Together with his wife, who is also a graduate in agriculture and retired as a Joint Director of Agriculture in 2020, he established a farmer service center. This initiative is focused on providing guidance, technical advice, and information to farmers on various aspects of agriculture and allied fields. The center serves as a valuable resource for local farming communities, reinforcing his commitment to knowledge-sharing and capacity building.
In addition to his contributions to agriculture, he has also made a mark as an author. He has published three books that reflect his creative and intellectual pursuits. His works include “The Pavlov and The Dog,” a collection of English poems; “The Truant Gene,” a memoir written in English; and “Salabhangal Parayunnathu,” a book of poems in Malayalam. Through these publications, he explores themes of life, memory, and human experience, showcasing a different dimension of his personality beyond his professional achievements.
All his books have been published by Romanson Publishers, Thiruvananthapuram, and are available on Amazon India, making them accessible to a wider audience. He continues to nurture his passion for writing and plans to publish more works in the future.
Currently settled near Thamarassery in Kozhikode district, Kerala, he leads a life that seamlessly blends agriculture, community service, and literary expression. His journey reflects a rare combination of professional excellence, social commitment, and creative exploration.
K.V. Sanjeev’s life stands as an inspiring example of how dedication to one’s field, combined with a willingness to evolve and contribute beyond formal roles, can create a lasting impact. Whether through his service in agriculture, his engagement with farmers, or his literary contributions, he continues to influence and inspire those around him.
