Introduction
Dhaanyganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra (DGKVK) under the aegis of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI), Belur Math, Howrah, functioning from Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Sargachhi, Murshidabad, West Bengal, has been actively promoting sustainable agricultural practices and livelihood development among rural and urban youth.
One such successful initiative is the vermicomposting enterprise established by Shri Debashis Roy Choudhury of 14/1, Puratan Kuthi Road, Cossimbazar, Murshidabad. Through scientific guidance, technical support, and motivation from DGKVK, he transformed his interest in organic farming into a successful entrepreneurship model. The initiative has not only improved his economic condition but has also created awareness regarding organic waste management, eco-friendly farming, and self-employment opportunities among local youth.
Background
In the present socio-economic scenario, many educated urban youth in Murshidabad district face limited employment opportunities and financial instability. Simultaneously, increasing dependence on chemical fertilizers has adversely affected soil health and environmental sustainability.
Recognizing these challenges, DGKVK identified vermicomposting as a sustainable and low-cost entrepreneurial opportunity for interested youth. Vermicomposting involves the conversion of biodegradable organic waste into nutrient-rich organic manure using earthworms. The technology requires comparatively low investment, utilizes locally available organic waste, and generates good economic returns.
Shri Debashis Roy Choudhury, initially engaged as a small share-market broker with unstable earnings, approached DGKVK with keen interest in organic farming and waste recycling. After detailed scientific discussions and technical interactions with DGKVK experts, he was motivated to establish a vermicomposting unit using available family resources and locally accessible materials.
The initiative not only created an alternative source of income for him but also promoted environmental conservation, waste recycling, and sustainable agriculture in the locality.
Role of Dhaanyganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra (DGKVK)
Debashis Roy Choudhury first gathered preliminary information regarding vermicomposting through digital media and local interactions. Later, he visited Dhaanyganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra, RKMA, Sargachhi, for scientific guidance and technical consultation.
Recognizing his interest and dedication, DGKVK encouraged him to participate in a three-day off-campus non-residential capacity-building training programme on ‘Vermicomposting and its Applications for Sustainable Soil Health Management’, organized jointly by DGKVK in collaboration with the Comprehensive Area Development Corporation (CADC) at Nowdapanur, Berhampore Block, Murshidabad. Under the technical supervision and guidance of Dr. Samrat Adhikary, Soil Scientist, DGKVK provided:
• Scientific training on vermicompost production and management.
• Technical guidance regarding pit preparation, moisture management, and compost maturity.
• Initial support of suitable earthworm species including Perionyx excavatus, Eisenia fetida, and Eudrilus eugeniae.
• Guidance on raw material selection and partial decomposition techniques.
• Marketing support through leaflets, awareness materials, and local networking.
• Regular monitoring and advisory services during the initial establishment phase.
Initially, Debashis constructed low-cost vermicompost pits using his own resources and started collecting cow dung and biodegradable organic waste from nearby dairy farms and households. With continuous technical support from DGKVK, he successfully produced marketable vermicompost within 45-60 days.Gradually, through local awareness generation and product quality improvement, he developed a stable customer base among farmers, kitchen gardeners, nursery owners, and rooftop gardeners.
