Turning Trash into Treasure: Keonjhar Forest Department's Vermicompost Revolution Empowers Communities

In a bid to empower women and improve livelihoods in Keonjhar, the Forest Department has initiated a vermicompost program that encourages self-help groups (SHGs) and residents of forest fringe villages to engage in vermicompost production. This alternative means of livelihood has yielded remarkable results, transforming the lives of individuals like Sumitra Giri. Sumitra, a 41-year-old resident of Aharposi village in Kandraposi gram panchayat, embarked on the journey of vermicompost making three years ago. With an initial investment of just Rs 3,500, she set up a small unit and began processing organic waste through earthworms. Today, she earns over Rs 1 lakh annually from selling vermicompost. Supported by the Keonjhar forest division, Sumitra and seven other women were taken on an exposure visit to a vermicompost production site. Inspired by the experience, they started producing vermicompost in their own backyards. The venture has proven highly successful, providing a significant boost to Sumitra's family's financial situation. Her increased income has allowed her to fund her son's ITI education and repay the loan taken for her daughter's wedding. Sumitra's success story is not unique. Many women in her village have achieved financial independence through vermicompost production, with some households earning Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh annually. The Keonjhar division has declared several villages as vermin-villages, where 50% or more households have vermicompost units. Additionally, the division has announced an assured buyback of organic compost for plantation and nursery activities. The Forest Department views vermicompost production as a low-capital investment alternative livelihood that can increase the income of farmers and forest-dependent tribal communities. Moreover, it reduces dependence on forests, mitigates man-animal conflict, and promotes a sustainable lifestyle.