Wealth from waste through worms in Thirukandalam

Vermicompost an age old technology of composting using various worms, usually red wigglers, white worms, and other earthworms to create a heterogeneous mixture of decomposing vegetable or food waste, bedding materials, and vermicast had not lost its significance. Vermicast, also called worm castings, worm humus or worm manure, is the end-product of the breakdown of organic matter by an earthworm. These castings have been shown to contain reduced levels of contaminants and a higher saturation of nutrients than do organic materials before vermicomposting. Containing water-soluble nutrients, vermicompost is an excellent, nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. This process of producing vermicompost is called vermicomposting. With an eye to all benefits, increasing attention is being focused of late on breeding of earth worm and subsequent preparation of rich manure. Agriculture based only on chemical fertilizers and other chemical inputs is not desirable because constant use of such inputs causes soil infertility and affects productivity. “Compared with 10-15 years back, many farmers are now becoming increasingly aware about the harmful effect of chemical use to grow their crops, and are moving towards alternative sustainable solutions. This Project sanctioned by Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology under the DIT Scheme (Dissemination of Innovative Technology) has helped us to implement this Age old but all time welcomed technique by farmers in our adopted Village at Thirukandalam.