SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE & INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT
COMPOSTING AND MICRO-ENTERPRISES
BACKGROUND & RATIONALE
Largely, we talk about heavy usage of chemical fertilizers in India. These fertilizers are not only relatively expensive and toxic, they also consume more water and leave plants dependent. Cow dung, or gobar, is also often burned by families to use as fuel, which affects women and their health. Vermicompost is a superior alternative to these fertilizers as it is efficient, low-cost, and natural. Vermicompost has the ability to improve the soil structure and increase its water-holding capacity, and is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. In many ways, it is the most non-violent form accelerator of plant growth, while also being the oldest and most nutritious. Through vermicomposting and micro-enterprises, farmers can yield better results with low investment while caring for the soil.
EMPOWERING LOCAL FARMERS
NATURAL PLANT NUTRITION
SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
At Swechha, we have prototyped different methods of waste management and composting at the Farm School, both for education as well as inspiration, along with fulfilling the requirement of the farm/farming. The prominent type is vermicomposting, which includes the use of Australian earthworms for manure making. Currently, we currently compost approximately 5,000 kg of dead leaves. We aim to propagate composting as a viable solution for homes, farms, agriculture and generating income and livelihood in the local community. In addition to compost, we will also produce and sell and/or provide local communities with our own earthworms and vermi-wash. In the near future, we aim to create a co-operative structure of “compost collectives” which will financially empower the women of the region.
PROGRAM OUTREACH
KG of Compost per month
Women
Villages
Training camps
PROGRAM IMAGES
Get Involved
We are always looking for young and enthusiastic minds that can help us create the change along with being the change. Whatever your passion, we always have opportunities for you along with endless cups of Chai!
SOME OF OUR
TESTIMONIALS
“I did not know that burning cow dung was bad for me and my daughters health and that there are better uses for it.”
Mohini
Farmer
“The goal of this initiative does not only brig women together with an empowering goal but also changes the state of the land with it .”
Falak
Community Member
“I have learnt that there are new ways to earn an income. This possibility makes me feel independent.”
Rakhi
Farmer