COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, OUAT, BHUBANESWAR

COURSE NO. : ELP-421

MODULE NAME – PRODUCTION OF VERMICOMPOST

4TH YEAR B.Sc (Hons) AGRICULTURE

8TH SEMESTER
2019-2023 BATCH

SUBMITTED BY – SRI SOUMITRA BEHURIA

ADMISSION NO. 191210214
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It is with great honor, I Sri Soumitra Behuria (191210214), student of 4th year B.Sc.
(Hons.) Ag, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, presenting this report on
“Production of Vermicompost” under the Department of “Soil Science and
Agricultural Chemistry” under the “ Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) 2022-
23.”

Thus, it is not hard to conclude how active assistance I got from everyone who
were the part of this highly prestigious programme ELP (2022-23).

I am extremely thankful to Dr. H. K. Patro sir, Dean, College of Agriculture for his
cooperation and encouragement.

Expressing my deepest gratitude to Dr. NARAYAN PANDA Sir (Assistant Professor,

Dept. of SSAC and Manager of Module, Production of Vermicompost) and Dr. A. K.
Dash Sir (HOD, Dept. of SSAC), Dr. S. K. PATTANAYAK Sir (Former Professor &
Head) for not only guiding us to the vision of this programme but also encouraging
us for our betterment and assured educational development regarding the
objectives of the programme.

Last, but not the least, I would also like to thank all the staff members of the
“Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry” and my beloved friends
who accompanied me in my tasks even during odd hours and made me keep up the
enthusiasm regarding my tasks.

PLACE: BHUBANESWAR (Signature of the student)

DATE: SRI SOUMITRA BEHURIA
Adm. No. - 191210214
 ORISSA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE& TECHNOLOGY
College of Agriculture, Bhubaneswar -751003

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that, the report on “EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PROGRAMME”

prepared and submitted under student READY programme 2022-23 for successful
completion of the ELP Module “PRODUCTION OF VERMICOMPOST” by SRI
SOUMITRA BEHURIA, 4th year B. Sc. (Hons.)Ag bearing ADM NO: -191210214 of
College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, under our guidance & supervision. All
sorts of help and sources of information availed during this programme have been
duly acknowledged. The experience gained during the course of their involvement
in the ELP programme has been found satisfactory.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Nararyan Panda Prof. Dr. Bibhuti Mahapatra Sir
Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry HOD, Dept. of Extension education
Manager of ELP Co-ordinator, ELP 2022-23
 CONTENTS

Sl no. Topic Page no.

1 Introduction 04
2 Experiential Learning Programme 04
3 Importance and Objectives of ELP Module 06
4 Orientation Programme 06
5 Knowledge gained during the module 08
6 The detailed particulars of the module 09
7 Knowledge 09
8 Different phases of Vermicomposting 13
9 Preventive measures 15
10 Chemistry of composting 17
11 Activity 18
12 Analysis 22
Nutrient analysis report of Different substrates used for 23
13
vermicomposting
14 Comparison of final product with FCO specifications 26
15 Benefits of Vermicompost 28
16 Economics of the module 29
17 Survey and experience report on visit to a Vermi-village : Bhanapur 30
18 SWOT Analysis 38
19 Conclusion 40
20 Epilogue 41
Agricultural Education is an important tool and technique in ensuring gradual
increase in agricultural productivity, sustainability in production, environmental
and ecological security, profitability, technical feasibility, job security and equity in
distribution. In India, ICAR 5th deans committee (2016) recommended the Student
Ready Programme for imparting quality, practical and production-oriented
education for agriculture degree programme. It is an appropriate model to create
high quality human resources for sustainable extension services.

The ELP (Experiential Learning Programme) is conducted every year in

the 8th semester. The main objective of the programme is to learn the
Entrepreneurship Development skills among the students. This programme helps a
lot in enhancing the required skill & practical knowledge to become a successful
entrepreneur. This includes planning, budgeting, and marketing of planting
materials of horticultural crops.

It has been most important for us as it has generated interest among us to

develop entrepreneur skill to set up our own enterprises with providing
employment opportunities for others.

This programme made us practically acquaints with methods of production

of vermicompost & nutrient analysis of its various stages.

ELP stands for Experiential Learning Programme, Started in 2016 through the
recommendation of 5th Dean‟s Committee, aims for promoting professional skills
and knowledge through hands on experience, building confidence and ability to
work in project mode and acquire enterprise management capabilities.
The word “EXPERIENTIAL” means that learning and development are
achieved through personal involvement and experience typically in group by
observing, listening, theoretical or hypothetical studies, rather than through
received teaching or training. It is an interactive business endeavor curriculum
which builds skills in project development and its execution, decision making,
individual and group coordination, problem solving approach, accounting, quality
control, marketing and resolving uncontrolled conflicts as it has end to end
approach.
ORGANISATIONAL SETUP

The emergence of three main personnel for this programme procedural working as
given below :-

 Chief Executive Officer- Dr. H. K. Patro ( Dean, College of Agriculture)

 Managing Director- Dr. A. K. Dash (Professor & Head, Dept. Of Soil Science &
Agril. Chemistry)
 Manager- Dr. Narayan Panda ( Asst. Professor, Dept. Of Soil Science & Agril.
Chemistry )

The above mentioned are the ones, under their belt the whole experiential learning
programme would revolve around and being supervised. Advisors from private
sectors can also be engaged for consultation for the programme, production and
sales profitability. In the need of time, another faculty member can be identified to
assist in managerial functions.

The programme would be under ceaseless monitoring eyes of MD and Manager to

verify against deviations in executing the plans and also to look after the real time
availability of required inputs and services in any form.

Separate bank accounts for each ELP units to be created and maintained by the
CEO. The unit shall function in corporate mode for local purchase. Purchase
committee shall consist of manager, one faculty member and one student from
concerned ELP unit and the committee shall function in a manner that high quality
product is purchased at competitive price.

To give the real experience and flavour of an enterprise to the students and other
organizations, each ELP unit shall have the organizational set-up as follows :-

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

(Associate Dean/ Dean of College)

MANAGING DIRECTOR
(Head of the Department)
(

MANAGER
(In- charge Faculty)
IMPORTANCE OF ELP MODULE
ELP is a business curriculum-related endeavour, which is interactive.

 ELP is for building skills in project development and execution, decision-

making, individual and team coordination, approach to problem-solving,
accounting, quality control, marketing and resolving conflicts, etc.
 ELP helps us to explore and discover our own potential and in process,
provide analytical skills and business acumen.
 It provides students like us an opportunity to develop analytical and
entrepreneurial skills and knowledge through meaningful hands on
experience, confidence in our ability to design and execute project work.
 ELP enhances our communicative and marketing skills which selling our
produce to vendors.

OBJECTIVES OF ELP MODULE

This project aims to focus upon the importance of entrepreneurship in our minds to
develop our entrepreneurship skills.

 Refinement of our acquired knowledge and understanding on commercial

production of vermicompost.
 Capacity building for designing and development of ecologically sustainable
and economically profitable agri-business models on vermicompost
production.
 Learning the art and science of production and managerial skills under
protected environment.
 Becoming a prospective entrepreneur for employment generation.
 To instill greater confidence, competitiveness and competence among us
students to meet needs of private sector.

ORIENTATION PROGRAMME

ORIENTATION IN COLLEGE :-
On 21st January, 2023, we attended the “Experiential Learning Programme”
inauguration which was presided by Dr. B. P. Mohapatra sir and Dr. B. S. Rath sir
along with other dignitaries, MDs and Managers of respective ELP units. Dr. B.P.
Mohapatra sir and Dr. B. S. Rath sir elucidated the innovation behind this
programme and described us how to participate in the programme, what are the
tasks to be concluded and objectives to be gratified for the triumphant. Before that
a selection process was held based on our academic performances of our last
semesters, we had to choose ELP module from the available options and likewise,
I chose to ELP module “Production of vermicompost”.

ORIENTATION IN DEPARTMENT :-
Orientation programme for ELP was conducted on 27th January 2023 in
NAE lab of soil science department by Dr. Narayan Panda sir. He gave us a brief
introduction related to the ELP Programme, and enlightened us with different
concept related to the ELP Programme.
His reprising role as the Managing Director of the EL unit welcomed us
and then shared about the ELP module for 4th year students. He told us about the
objectives of the Production of Vermicompost Programme. He apprised us to
acquire knowledge as well as to relish the experience during the module
programme. We were informed about the total duration of the course, how to work
out the attendance, etc. He also shared small scale but crucial information related
to vermicomposting preparation and in which crops it can be used, pros and cons
of it, its marketing etc. importance of organic farming and waste recycling etc.
Dr. A. K. Dash sir (HOD and Professor of SSAC) expressed his heartly
gratitude to all the faculties associated with this programme and also appreciated
us. He gave the work plan and timetable for module and informed us for market
survey and to know the demand for vermicompost.
KNOWLEDGE GAINED DURING THE MODULE
 Our ELP group consisted of total 20 team-mates
 The total group was divided into 4 subgroups based on the types of
substrates used for Vermicomposting.
• Vegetable waste
• Paddy straw
• Leaf litters
• Temple waste

A. REVIEW OF INFORMATION ON COMPOSTING AND VERMICOMPOSTING

A detailed concept was given on Composting and Vermicomposting, activities to
be Performed, etc. Collection of information from various sources such as Books,
Internet, you-tube, Magazines and journals, Past records and thesis, Folders &
leaflets, People involved in vermicomposting training & business, Our respected
Professors, Observation & self –experience.

B. PRESENTATION ON COMPOSTING, VERMICOMPOSTING AND SURVEY OF

SOME VERMICOMPOST DEALERS & FARMERS ENGAGED IN COMMERCIAL
PREPARATION OF VERMICOMPOST

 Division of Presentation topic into 20 subtopics assigned to each student.

 Queries were raised letting us understand our topic in a depth. Suggestions for
improvements, feedbacks were given by our ELP professors and mates.
 After improvements, all the individual presentations were merged along with all
suggestions taken into account and finally 2 topics were made. A final
Presentation was given.

C. SUBMISSION OF WRITE-UP (COMPOSTING, VERMICOMPOSTING, SURVEY

REPORT & EXPERIENCE REPORT OF THE EXPOSURE VISIT)
• A whole group effort was made towards submission of above mentioned write-
ups and a final compiled report of the entire topic was also submitted.
• It was followed by short objective type questions test which consisted of 25
questions.

D. PREPARATION OF EXTENSION BASED LITERATURE

Handmade extension folder/Leaflet was prepared in mostly odia language format
on the topic of composting/vermicomposting in precise manner.
THE DETAILED PARTCULARS OF THE MODULE
A) KNOWLEDGE
 Knowing about fundamentals and information.
 Composting and its needs.
 Significance of composting.
 Different types and methods of composting and vermicomposting.
 Waste generation and management.
 Chemistry.
B) ACTIVITY
 Collection of raw materials and substrate.
 Filling of compost pit.
 Turning of partially decomposed substrate.
 Addison of vermins.
 Harvesting product.
C) ANALYSIS
 Analysis of parameters like C%, N%, P%, K%, S%, Ca%, C:N, C:P, C:S at
different stages.
D) SURVEY AND DEVELOPMENT OF PROGRAMME

KNOWLEDGE
 What is Vermicompost

Vermicompost is the process by which worms are used to convert organic

materials (usually wastes) into a humus-like material known as vermicompost.
Vermicompost is stable, fine granular organic manure, which enriches soil quality
by improving its physicochemical and biological properties. It is highly useful in
raising seedlings and for crop production. Vermicompost is becoming popular as a
major component of organic farming system.

 Earthworms, through a type of „biological alchemy‟, are capable of transforming

garbage into gold –the vermicompost.
 The action of earthworm in the process of vermicomposting is physical and
biochemical.
 The physical process includes substrate aeration, mixing as well as grinding of
organic waste, while the biochemical process is influenced by microbial
decomposition of substrate in the guts of earthworms.
 Vermicompost consist of casting of earthworms which is in the form of semi-
digested loosely packed granular aggregates.
 Vermicomposting is an appropriate alternative for safe, hygienic and cost-
effective disposal of organic waste.
 It is technically sound, economically attractive and environmentally safe
 Vermicomposting began in United States & Canada during 1970 and today, the
USA, Japan, Philippines, Canada and China are the leading countries in
vermicomposting both quantitatively and qualitatively.
 In India, its importance in organic waste management has been realised only in
the last 25 years and started.

 Vermiculture
Vermiculture means scientific method of breeding and raising earthworms in
controlled conditions.

 Vermitechnology
Vermitechnology is the combination of vermiculture and vermicomposting. Thus,
earthworms can be used in the following areas :-
1. for development of arable soils, turnover of soil, breakdown of plant organic
matter.
2. For production of useful products like vermi fertilizer and worm tissue for
animal feed.
3. for maintenance of environmental quality and monitor of the environment for
soil fertility, organic and heavy metal & non-biodegradable toxic material
pollution (Thus, earthworms are called “ Biological Markers.” ).

 EARTHWORM AT A GLANCE

 Earthworm is a terrestrial invertebrate belongs to phylum annelida and are

able to convert garbage to „gold‟.
 Charls Darwin described earthworm as “Unheralded Soilders of Mankind”.
 As earthworm could digest various types of organic matter , Aristotle called
them as “Intestine of Earth”.
 Earthworm influences soil physical properties, micro-flora, micro fauna
therefore it is called as „drilosphere‟ (Pathma and Sakthivel, 2012) also
called as “farmer‟s friend” as it enhances soil fertility and „nature‟s
ploughmen‟or ecosystem engineer.

Phylum-Annelida
Habit and habitat :-
 They occur in diverse habitats.
 Earthworms occur in both temperate and tropical soils.
 Earthworms are miniature topsoil factories and found in the upper 15-25
cm soil.
Morphology and anatomy :-

 They are egg laying hermaphrodites that eat detritus, soil organic matter and
microorganisms found on those material.
 They do not eat living plants or their roots and so do not act as pests to crop.
 Earthworms have long cylindrical body. The body is divided into more than
hundred short segments which are similar (metameres about 100-120 in
number).
 Earthworm is a reddish-brown terrestrial invertebrate that inhabits the upper
layer of the moist soil.
 During day time, they live in burrows made by boring and swallowing the soil.
In the gardens, they can be traced by their faecal deposits known as worm
castings.
 The common Indian earthworms are Pheretima and Lumbricus.
 A single female genital pore is present in the mid-ventral line of the 14th
segment.
 A pair of male genital pores are present on the ventro-lateral sides of the 18th
segment.
 Earthworm exhibits a closed type of blood vascular system, consisting of
blood vessels, capillaries and heart.
 The excretory organs occur as segmentally arranged coiled tubules called
nephridia (sing.: nephridium).
 Sensory system does not have eyes and Worms have specialised
chemoreceptors (taste receptors) which react to chemical stimuli. These
sense organs are located on the anterior part of the worm.
 They range from an inch to 3m in length and are found seasonally at all depths
in the soil.

 TYPES OF EARTHWORMS USED FOR VERMICOMPOSTING

Eudrilus eugeniae Eisenia fetida Lumbricus rubellus Perionyx excavatus

Different Phases of vermicomposting

Phase 1 : Processing involving collection of wastes, shredding, mechanical
separation of the metal, glass and ceramics and storage of organic
wastes.

Phase 2 : Pre-digestion of organic waste for 20-45 days depending upon kind
of substrate used by heaping the material along with cattle dung
slurry. This process partially digests the material and fit for
earthworm consumption. Cattle dung and biogas slurry may be used
after drying. Wet dung should not be used for vermicompost
production.

Phase 3 : Preparation of earthworm bed.

 Vermibed is the layer of moist loamy soil placed at the bottom,

about 15 to 20 cm thick above a thin layer (5 cm) of broken bricks
and coarse sand which the worms will inhabit as their home.
 200-300 earthworms may be introduced into a compost pit of
about 2m x 1m x 0.75m, with a vermibed of about 15 to 20 cm
thickness.
 Handful-lumps cattle dung are then placed at random over the
vermibed.
 The compost pit is then layered to about 5 cm with dry leaves or
preferably chopped hay/straw or agricultural waste biomass.
 For the next 30 days the pit is kept moist by watering it whenever
necessary.
 The pit may then be covered with an old jute (gunny) bag to
 discourage birds.
 Plastic sheets on the bed are to be avoided as they trap heat.

A concrete base is required to put the waste for vermicompost

preparation. Loose soil will allow the worms to go into soil and also
while watering, all the dissolvable nutrients go into the soil along
with water.

Phase 4 : MATURITY OF COMPOST

 The stability and maturity of vermicompost can be assessed by C:N

ratio, moisture content, EC and pH of final product.
 The decrease in C:N ratio during vermicomposting process
indicates complete degradation, mineralization and maturity of
vermicompost.
 The loss of carbon as CO₂ due to decomposition of organic matter
and addition of nitrogen due to mineralization during
vermicomposting process reduces C:N ratio in the end product.
 C:N ratio below 20 indicate compost is nearing maturity.
 pH decreases from alkali to neutral due to formation of organic
acid and CO₂ evolution indicates maturity of compost (6-8.5).
 Decrease in EC during vermicomposting may be due to
precipitation or leaching of soluble salt and mineralization of
organic acids.

HARVESTING OF VERMICOMPOST

 The harvesting is done nearly after 90 days of the programme.

 The criteria for harvesting can be known by the following
observations:-
 Formation of the vermicasts on the surface.
 The colour of the final product becomes dark brown to black
and granular.
 The earthworms crawl towards the surface and gets attached
to the gunny bags spread over the vermibeds and feed on them.
 Prior to 2-3 days of harvesting water supply should be stopped.
 The final product should be shed dried.
 After shed drying the final product is sieved and the
 undecomposed materials are separated and again put for
decomposition.
 The earthworms tend to form ball inside after stopping the
water supply and they are separated and collected for
vermiculturing.

Phase 5 : Collection of earthworms after vermicompost collection. Sieving the

composted material to separate fully composted material. The
partially composted material will be again put into vermicompost
bed.

Methods of earthworm harvesting:-

1. Manual method
 Used by small scale growers.
 Involves hand sorting or picking the worm directly from compost
by hand.
2. Screen method
A box is constructed with screen at bottom and compost along
with earthworm spread above the box can be separated.
3. Cow Dung Ball
 A cow dung ball is placed into the bed and the ball is kept for
about 24 hrs.
 The cow dung ball should be taken out on the next day and
finding all the worms sticking to the ball.
 The worms can be separated out by placing the cow dung ball in
a bucket full of water.
The collected worms can be used for the next batch of composting.

Phase 6 : Storing the vermicompost in proper place to maintain

moisture and allow the beneficial microorganisms to grow.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES
1. The organic wastes should be free from plastics, chemicals,
pesticides, metals etc.

2. Vermipit / tank must be protected against direct sunlight;

rainfall and the floor of the unit should be compact to prevent
migration of the worms into the soil.

3. 50-60% moistures level should be maintained in the beds.

4. Well decomposed cow-dung should be used to avoid excess

heat in the heap.

5. Proper aeration should be maintained for proper growth and

multiplication of verms.

6. Temperature of the compost pit should be around 25-300C.

7. Periodical removal of the worm cast is necessary.

8. Injured worms should be discarded to save infection.

9. Vermibed may be replaced after two cycles of composting

or after 6 months duration.
CHEMISTRY OF COMPOSTING
 ACTIVITY
 COLLECTION OF ALLOTTED SUBSTRATES i.e., Leaf Litters

We were assigned with 4 types of wastes i.e; Vegetable waste, paddy straw, leaf
litters & temple waste. I was assigned to the group of „ Leaf litters ‟.
„Collection of vegetable waste was started from nearby places in and around
the college campus and the substrates were added to the allotted pits for partial
decomposition.
Mostly the wastes contained dried fallen leaves of various plants and grass
cuttings.
The substrates were regularly added and the unwanted plastics & non-
biodegradable materials were segregated.

DAY-1 01/02/23 35 kg substrate added

DAY-2 02/02/23 40 kg substrate added
DAY-3 03/02/23 15kg substrate added
DAY-4 04/02/23 55 kg substrate added
DAY-5 06/02/23 25 kg substrate added
DAY-6 07/02/23 30 kg substrate added
DAY-7 08/02/23 10 kg substrate added
DAY-8 09/02/23 22 kg substrate added
DAY-9 10/02/23 25 kg substrate added
DAY-10 13/02/23 45 kg substrate added
DAY-11 14/02/23 48 kg substrate added
DAY-12 15/02/23 55 kg substrate added
DAY-13 16/02/23 35 kg substrate added
DAY-14 20/02/23 25 kg substrate added
DAY-15 27/02/23 35 kg substrate added
DAY-16 Approx 12 kg cow dung was made into slurry and was added into it
in the ratio 3:1. At least 5-10 days old cow dung should be used to avoid
excess heat generation. Regular watering had been done to maintain the
moisture level. By aerating or turning over, the heap temperature &
moisture can be homogenized. Then the substrate was left for partial
decomposition.
17/03/23-Turning of pile was done and the partially decomposed
substrates were shifted to permanent vermicompost pits where 1kg of
earthworms were added to the pit. Cow dung slurry was added. Pit was
covered with shadenet. Regular watering was carried on to provide
optium habitat for survival of earthworms.

The pile was regularly turned and optimum moisture percentage of 40% was
maintained.
When vermicast were formed on the upper layer then water addition to the pit
was stopped.
The final product vermicompost is identified when it looked like Tea
powder/dust.
The vermins were removed from the pit and the vermicompost was taken out
from pit and air-dried.
It was then sieved and final vermicompost was bagged for selling.
Apart from field activity there was also theoretical activity. We were told to
prepare presentation on different topics and explain them.
Progress on Analysis as well as preparation of vermicompost was regularly
checked.

Collection of Leaf litters from the playground area inside the college campus

Addition of collected waste material into the pit

 Weighing of collected waste materials

The pit was filled to its maximum capacity Watering to the waste material
of 600 Kg

Preparation of cow dung slurry & its application on the filled pits for partial decomposition of
collected waste materials
 Transferring of partially decomposed materials into the Vermi-beds

Release of earthworm species Eudrilus eugeniae into the semi-decomposed material to turn them
into vermicompost
 ANALYSIS
Analysis of the substrates were done at different stages of their decomposition to
find out the gradual changes in the percentage of various macro & micro-nutrients
and differentiate between other substrates.

Grinding of the oven dried sample and making aliquot for nutrient estimation

Making samples for P, K and S estimation

 Organic carbon estimation of the final K content reading by Flame
product(Vermicompost) photometer

NUTRIENT ANALYSIS REPORT OF DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES USED FOR

VERMICOMPOSTING AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF THEIR MATURATION

1. ANALYSIS AND RESULT OF ELEMENT‟S PERCENTAGE IN VEGETABLE WASTE

2. ANALYSIS AND RESULT OF ELEMENT‟S PERCENTAGE IN PADDY STRAW

3. ANALYSIS AND RESULT OF ELEMENT‟S PERCENTAGE IN LEAF LITTER

4. ANALYSIS AND RESULT OF ELEMENT‟S PERCENTAGE IN TEMPLE WASTE

Inspection of our ELP programme by ELP co-ordinator Dr. Bibhuti Mohapatra Sir
 COMPARISION OF FINAL PRODUCT WITH FCO
SPECIFICATIONS

FCO VEGETABLE PADDY LEAF TEMPLE

PARAMETERS
SPECIFICATIONS WASTE STRAW LITTERS WASTE
Moisture, per cent
15.0 – 25.0 21.0 25.0 28.0 23.0
by weight
Dark Dark Dark
Dark brown to Dark brown
Color brown to brown to brown to
black to black
black black black
Absence Absence Absence
Absence of foul Absence of
Odour of foul of foul of foul
odour foul odour
odour odour odour
Total OC, % by wt.
min. 18.0 15.3 21.0 20.6 17.7

Total N, % by wt.
min. 1.0 0.81 0.87 0.75 0.96

Total P (as P2O5), %

by wt. min. 0.8 0.3 0.076 0.07 0.1

Total K (as K2O), %

by wt. min. 0.8 1.8 1.0 0.92 4.69

Report presentation on Earthworms, their nature & their significance in composting

 Analysis of the ‘N’ content in the final sample

Sieving of the final product Packaging of vermicompost

Visit of a Farmers’ group to our Vermi-pits

 BENEFITS OF VERMICOMPOST
 Benefits to soil:-
 Influence the microbial activity of soil
 Increases the availability of oxygen
 Maintains normal soil temperature
 Increases soil porosity thus, lowering the Bulk Density
 Increases infiltration of water
 Improves water retention capability of soil
 Benefits to environment:-
 Decreases pollution.
 Benefits to farmer:
 For farmers provides an additional source of income generation.
 Less waste land formation as waste land can be used for
establishing vermicompost unit.
 Savings in purchased inputs which leads to lower cost of
production.
 Benefits to economy:-
 Very promising and profitable sector for entrepreneurs.
 These entrepreneurs can provide jobs to different people.
 In rural areas, women are forming Self Help Groups (SHG), doing
vermicompost and are becoming economically independent.
 Boost to rural economy thus, national economy.
 Benefits to industries:-
Waste materials from other industries can be used as raw materials for
vermicompost unit. For eg., paper mill sludge from paper mill and press mud
from sugarcane industry can be used as substrate and, cow dung from cow
shed (dairy industry).
 ECONOMICS OF THE MODULE (FOR 90 DAYS CYCLE)

Fund received : Rs. 20,000.00 (Rupees Twenty thousand only)

 EXPENDITURE DETAILS

PARTICULARS AMOUNT/CYCLE
Helping hands (one CL) 50 days @ Rs
Rs. 16,650
333/-
Cow dung & transportation cost Rs. 1500.00
Neem cake powder (6 kg. @ Rs 30/-) Rs. 180.00
Earthworm (1 kg.) Rs. 500.00
Poly bag Rs. 1,170.00
Total Rs. 20,000.00

 PRODUCTION AND REVENUE DETAILS

PIT – 1 PIT – 2 PIT – 3 PIT – 4

QUANTITY ADDED ( VEGETABLE ( PADDY ( LEAF ( TEMPLE
WASTE ) STRAW ) LITTERS ) WASTE )

Raw 600 Kg. 600 Kg. 600 Kg. 600 Kg.

360 Kg. 300 Kg. 300 Kg.
Finished 360 Kg. (60%)
(60%) (50%) (50%)
TOTAL FINISHED
1320 Kg.
PRODUCT

SALE PRICE OF THE

Rs. 26,400
PRODUCT ( Rs. 20 / Kg. )

B:C Ratio 1.32

Sold under brand name : “ ”

 While undergoing an undergraduate programme, a student goes
through a quantum transformation. While he becomes wiser by
inculcating tonnes of knowledge within himself, he also becomes
more matured with frequent exposure to the real world scenario.
While books being irreplaceable is fact, nobody can deny the
importance of a field visit or a trip during the academic career of a
student.

As I recount my experience on the exposure visit which took place on 27th of last month
(27th March, 2023), I can’t help but liken it to a magnificent tapestry, woven with threads of
discovery and adventure. Like a weaver working meticulously to create a masterpiece, the
visit was crafted to provide an unforgettable journey of learning, exploration and more of
what a common housewife can do if she decides it to be. The purpose of the tour was
interchange of knowledge about the process of vermicomposting and its potential as a
sustainable method of waste management and organic farming with a group of enthusiastic
women who were trained in the art of vermicomposting by a Social Entrepreneur named
Mr. Praffula Bishoi.

From the moment I stepped on to the bus, I felt a sense of anticipation, like a bird poised to
take flight. It was really lucky for us to have a bus driver whose village was in the vicinity of
the village where our visit was decided to be. Hence, we didn’t find much of the difficulties
in finding our way to the destination.

All the 20 students of our ELP were present on that day and were eager to discover the
river of knowledge on an unfamiliar terrain. Well how can someone miss a nostalgic visit
to a knowledgeable place that too in the last year of their graduation? Hence, unlike other
days nobody was absent on that particular morning. We were really glad to be
accompanied by two of our course teachers, one is Prof. Dr. Sushanta Kumar Pattanayak
sir (Emeritus Professor, Soil Science) and Asst. Prof. Dr. Narayan Panda sir, who were very
elegant teachers in the field of vermicomposting.

As we journeyed further to our destination Bhanapur village of Nimapada block, situated

on the outskirts of the Puri district, the landscape changed before our very eyes. Like a
Painter’s canvas the vista was dotted with vibrant hues of green, yellow and orange,
creating a stunning mosaic of colors.
It hardly took 35-40 mins for our college bus to reach the destination. Upon reaching there
we were really amazed by the traditional method of hospitality shown to us by the villagers.
We were greeted to the “Baba Akhandalamani Temple” situated at the start of the village.
They provided chairs for our Professors and spreaded the mats on the ground for the
students for making us comfortable to sit. Cool breeze from the pond nearby accompanied
by the shade of a huge Banyan tree, the temple looked the perfect serine and clean place to
conduct the meeting in view of exchanging knowledge between us and the villagers. And
yes Not to forget the desi tender coconut they gave us plucked right from their own
backyard to beat the heat was just like the cherry on the cake.

After a short break we were reenergized to begin our curiousness on the purpose of visit to
that village. There were 2 JLGs (Joint Liability Group), one “Baba Somnath JLG” and the
other “Baba Biswanath JLG” lead by Mrs. Prashanti Nanda. Her simplicity in the words and
repect in her behaviour proved us that she is perfect to be the leader of those JLGs. She
explained us in details how the word “Vermicomposting” came into their knowledge. As
per her words, “It was the time of 2012, when people of Bhanapur village were totally
tired of the losses occurred to their farming by untimely rain, diseases, cyclones, etc.
Besides that they were looking for ways to keep their village clean by proper waste
management and earn money out of something as a collateral business. At the same time
Mr. Prafulla Bishoi who was an brilliant established Social Entrepreneur was looking for a
scope to expand his Micro-Project to turn a normal village into a Vermi-Village. And then
he came across the village Bhanapur which was a perfect place to shape his idea of
Vermi-Village into reality. Then he engaged himself in teaching the art of
Vermicomposting to the villagers. To his goodness, all the housewives stepped forward to
take interest in this process. According to him, the best canditates for his idea were
women as the men were busy in farming and doing other jobs. After gaining knowledge
from him, at first 4 women showed interest to make a “Backyard Vermicomposting Unit”
and this group was lead by Mrs. Prashanti Nanda. Mr. Bishoi provided them a fund of ₹
4,000 /- and gave them a special breed of earthworms named Eisenia fetida explaining
them that these were perfect worms to breakdown the organic waste into nutrient-rich
compost. He also provided them with Silpoulin-250GSM tough plastic pits of dimensions
5ft × 4ft × 2ft. He also gave them circular HDPE bins that can be used for Vermiculture.
Time passed on and his idea became a grand success. From 4 women now it’s turned into
26 women, each having their own micro-project vermicompost unit in their backyard
which is capable of generating 10 quintals of vermicompost per pit at one go.”

It was not only Mr. Bishoi’s efforts but also strong determination and hardworks of the
housewives who changed the view point of other people about their village. From the
leadership skills of Mrs. Prashanti Nanda and the efforts put forth by other members of the
group it was evident and was clearly visible that “When an Indian housewife is determined
to achieve something for her self-esteem and commits herself towards her ultimate goal,
then no universal force can stop her from achieving that feat, irrespective of how hard or
complex the target is.

After the conversation, we were headed towards the village to visit the individual
vermicompost units to have a closer and clean experience. Even the strong heat couldn’t
beat the curiousity among us to know more and better about the units. Along with the JLG
members Sushanta sir and Narayan sir walked to the individual houses and we all students
followed them. The common thing which we all observed that made this village unique
from other Vermi-Villages is that all of them had set up a small circular bins made up of
HDPE material for Vermiculture besides the main vermicompost unit. This beautiful
initiative helped them to be independent for future earthworm needs, to continue the
vermicomposting process. Almost all people had cows in their house due to which they
didn’t spend a single penny on purchasing cow dung which is the major component in
making of vermicompost. Upon enquiry we found that besides cow dung the main
substrates used were kitchen waste, backyard waste, weeds like water hyacinth from
their ponds. The climate of village being so suitable for cultivation of Banana plants, this is
the reason behind using the banana pseudostem as a major crop residue after cow dung to
form vermicompost. The pseudostem being an excellent contributor of potassium adds
micronutrient to the vermin-pit which further increases the quality of vermicompost. One
setback we found in process was that the locals had a religious belief regarding the temple
wastes that obstructed them to use the same for the process of vermicomposting. If it
would have been added as a substrate, then it could have increased the quality of
vermicomposting to a much higher extent. We collected samples from every pit in order to
analyse the chemistry of the product at our college laboratory.

We were really impressed by the efficiency and simplicity of the vermicomposting process
and the positive impact it was having on the environment and the local community. In this
modern society where people used to fight on silly things, then there is this village which
completely stands at an unique position where housewives are doing wonders with
complete support from their family.

They have truly understood the meaning of “Cleanliness is close to Godliness”. Every day
they dedicate at least 2-3 hours for vermicomposting. Even though Brahmins by cast they
didn’t hesitate to do this job. After harvesting the product and proper sieving, they store
them in sacks and send it through trucks where Mr. Bishoi do the packaging and sells to the
customers under a beautiful brand name “Jay Gomata GPM Vermicompost”. The JLGs sell
the vermicompost at ₹600 /- per quintal which is too cheaper than other sources thus
increasing their demand. But their major income comes from the selling of vermiculture @
1kg earthworm for ₹250 /- (700g earthworm and 300 g compost).
After collecting samples from each pit we named them and took their phone numbers to
provide them details of their products after analysis.

Then we had a brief chat with Mr. Bishoi about other businesses and about success of his
micro-project at the Bhanapur village. We got to know that he has several businesses at
other districts of the state too. He also sells the vermicompost to our neighbouring states
like Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, etc. He said, “At beginning of his carrier he saw that
Odisha produced too many biodegradable Agro-waste which was not put into proper
disposal or for its proper alternative use. Hence, he came of with idea of producing
vermicompost to turn Waste into Wealth”. He has a wish to see a clean, green, organic
and ecofriendly Odisha and for this he wants to inspire the entire young generation to
step forward and take part in start ups like Vermi-Village transformation in order to make
proper use of waste.

At every stage of the visit we took photographs even of the tiniest bits of works so that this
experience could be etched in our memories forever.

Then we returned to the temple from where we began our journey. Lunch preparation
were already over. We were served the lunch in purely traditional way upon banana leaves.
We along with our teachers and all the members of JLGs enjoyed the lunch. The
combination of rice, dal, ghanta, salald and pampad with the serenity of the temple just
perfectly satisfied our appetite.

As we set to end our expedition and return from that place, each person of that place
thanked us for visiting their village and providing so deeper knowledge about all on going
processes. One thing we realized by meeting them was that dedication, determination and
perseverance helps a person to achieve his/her goal irrespective of whatever obstacles
come in the way.

I feel grateful to my college for funding this trip which has allowed me to gain some
invaluable on-field experience which is going to help me a lot in my future. I’m thankful to
Prof. Dr. Sushanta Kumar Pattanayak sir (Emeritus Professor, Soil Science) and Asst. Prof.
Dr. Narayan Panda sir for guiding us throughout the trip and of course, to all the JLG
memebers and Mr. Bishoi for presenting such an elaborate and crystal-clear
demonstration. With less than a couple of months remaining before our graduation, we
expect a few more of the same in the coming weeks to further enhance our skills and
increase our practical knowledge which will ultimately result in the overall development of
the underprivileged society. Lastly I want to give special thanks to my ELP mates
Siddhartha Mishra, Bibhu Prasad Behera, Biswajit Soronia and Subhankar Pati for
providing a major helping hand in the grand success of the exposure visit.
OPINION AND SUGGESTIONS
It is always evident that “The more you go deeper into a concept, you realize the least you
know about it”. That’s the reason why knowledge evokes far more questions than
answers.

Villagers should avoid that religious belief of not adding temple waste as a substarte
which can truly increase the quality of their vermicompost to a higher extent.
They still lack the basic scientific knowledge about vermicomposting which is a major
setback in expanding their business.
They are also unaware of the benefit of neem cake which can reduce the number of
pathogens in vermipits.
They also unaware of the chemicals like chlorpyriphos, phenols, etc. to avoid
predators like snakes, rodents, termites, etc from coming in the vicinity of the pits.

The above lacuna should be fulfilled by their mentor in order to achieve a much higher
success rate in this Micro-project.

Meeting with JLG members

Inspection of vermi pit

Vermiculture of earthworm species Net protection from Mongoose
Eisenia fetida

Survey of Vermi-pit of JLG member Collection and naming of sample

Mrs. Sachala Parida

Interaction with Mr. Praffula Bishoi ( Social Entrepreneur )

 Sieving of Vermicompost

Lunch Checking the quality of

Vermicompost

Transfering of Vermicompost bags Brand packaging of Vermicompost

through trucks for packaging by Mr. Praffula Bishoi
 Demonstration of male and female part With all the JLG members
of an earthworm by Pattanayak Sir

SWOT ANALYSIS
STRENGTH
 ORGANIC FOOD PRODUCTION- Organic products are well known for their High
quality and improved nutrition.
 ENVIRONMENT SUSTAINABILITY- Management of the bio-degradable waste
materials in the cities is the major issue which can be solved by
vermicomposting method
 INTEGRATED FARMING SYSTEM- When a farmer choose to go for integrated
farming then the waste materials of all the units can be used in the production
of the vermicompost and vice-versa.
 IMPROVED SOIL HEALTH- use of vermicompost is very much beneficial to
improve the soil physical structure by improving its organic matter, soil
aeration, prevent soil erosion and infertility of the soil.
 WATER USE EFFICIENCY- The water holding capacity of the soil increases by
the application of the vermicompost and hence water use efficiency increases.
 CAN BE PRACTICED AT DIFFERENT LEVEL- even by a small farmer to a larger
industrialist.

WEAKNESS
 LACK OF KNOWLEDGE - Most of the producers don’t know the proper method
and proper details about the production of vermicompost, importance of
nutrient analysis and may more other details.
 TIME CONSUMING - Vermicompost production(it generally takes about 4-5
months) is very time consuming process as compared to composting.
 ODOUR - Substrates generally produces very foul smell while initial
decomposition, especially when it contains a lot of green vegetables waste or
similar products.
 MAINTAINACE OF VERMICOMPOST- Vermicompost unit require maintenance
like timely watering, turning of compost at regular interval and for all of these
things lack of skilled labour produces a major problem.
 PEST PROBLEM- Vermicompost units attract pests like flies, mosquitoes, and
other rodents which sometimes create problems for the main crop plants.
 INITIAL COST of establishment is very high.
 WEATHER CONDITION - In cyclone prone areas like coastal regions of Odisha
 ORGANIC CERTIFICATION is very costly.

OPPORTUNITY
 GROWING ORGANIC MARKET- Modern people are moving towards the organic
market. It is becoming the trending demand of the people to move towards
organic foods.
 GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES FOR ESTABLISHMENT- Various Government
subsidies are being provided for the initial establishment of the Vermicompost
Units at different block levels.
 TRAINING PROGRAM FOR VERMICOMPOST PREPARATION- Different training
programme are given to the producers by the KVK Scientists and researchers
for proper knowledge distribution.
 RISING HEALTH AWARENESS- With the rising health problems people are
shifting toward organic fruits and vegetables due to their nutritious values and
organic origin.
 WASTE MANAGEMENT- Rising level of the bio-degradable waste in cities
creates best opportunity for the vermicompost production units by the
municipalities.
 ABSENCE OF COMPETITORS in the market can be a big opportunity for
producers.

THREAT
 HIGH COST OF ORGANIC FOOD - The cost of Organic fruits and vegetable are
very high and this can’t be affordable by the common people very easily. So this
create a very big problem for the organic cultivators.
 LACK OF KNOWLEDGE ON WASTE MANAGEMENT - In the cities due to lack of
knowledge on different topics like segregation of waste materials on the basis
of bio-degradable and non-biodegradable also create problem for the
municipality to establish a vermicomposting system for a city.
 LACK OF PROPER INFRASTRUCTURE - Due to lack of proper infrastructure for
training and nutrient analysis at ground level it also create a lot of problems.
Research and development can’t be done properly due to lack of infrastructure.

CONCLUSION
SKILLS DEVELOPED DURING THE MODULE

The ELP programme is mainly designed to provide experience in different works

and to improve the interpersonal and analytical skills.
Through this ELP programme we were directly involved in the estimation of
different parameters of chemistry of substrates used in vermicomposting by
analysing the substrates ourselves under the guidance of our ELP manager.
As we were directly involved in the estimation of various parameters of different
samples, we got a basic knowledge about the status of those parameters basing
on which we can also recommend a farmer about those parameters.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPED DURING THE MODULE

This ELP programme has not only provided us professional knowledge but also
strengthened our technical knowledge.
As a result of which we gained a basic knowledge about the working principle,
procedures as well as the required precautions to be taken that are used for
estimation of various parameters of different elements used in the laboratory.
Besides these things we can also recommend a farmer about the easy and the
best approach to get the status of various parameters in his farm field.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS DEVELOPED

Through this ELP we acquired following entrepreneurial skills-
 Curiosity- We were preparing vermicompost bed and handling earthworm on
our designated vermicompost pit and hence we were curious to learn
everything essential to make our product the best.
 Time management- Distributing our time in the activity and managing all of
them made us better time managers.
 Efficiency- Problem solving requires high efficiency which reflect in our
module. We had to switch between different chores and progresss effectively
day-to-day.
 Resilience- We handle low progress, lack of focus, stress, burnouts very well.
We build this module from scratch and it requires great patience.
 Networking- Growing our connection with local sellers, vendors, and whole
seller help us to deliver the right message on all fronts.
 Finance- We handled resource properly and carefully assessed investments
comparing it to return of investment.
 Teamwork & Co-ordination.

EPILOGUE
The production of degradable organic waste and its safe disposal
becomes the current global problem. Meanwhile the rejuvenation of degraded soils
by protecting topsoil and sustainability of productive soils is a major concern at the
international level.
Provision of a sustainable environment in the soil by amending with good
quality organic soil additives enhances the water holding capacity and nutrient
supplying capacity of soil and also the development of resistance in plants to pests
and diseases.
By reducing the time of humification process and by evolving the methods
to minimize the loss of nutrients during the course of decomposition, the fantasy
becomes fact. Earthworms can serve as tools to facilitate these functions. They
serve as ― nature‘s ploughman and form nature‘s gift to produce good humus,
which is the most precious material to fulfil the nutritional needs of crops.
Therefore, it is rightly said,

“ Your trash – Nature’s treasure ”