Nestled among the lush apple orchards of Gagran village in Shopian district in Kashmir, Ali Mohammad Mir’s two-story mud house is a site for a thriving vermicomposting unit. The seventy year old farmer defies conventional farming practices and embraces eco-friendly entrepreneurship.
Mir’s journey into vermicomposting was a deliberate choice rooted in his love for agriculture. He dreamt of a unique path in farming, one that rejected chemical-intensive methods. Seeking superior outcomes for his crops, he embarked on this eco-friendly venture.
With a loan of Rs 30,000 and comprehensive training from the government agriculture department in 2005, Mir transformed a portion of his land into a flourishing vermicomposting farm. Today, his vermicompost, known as “Kissan Vermicompost Organic Fertilizer,” is highly sought after in the region, enriching soil and enhancing crop yields.
Mir’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond his own farm. He markets his organic manure to local nurseries, farmers, and gardening enthusiasts, contributing to the region’s agriculture sector. Producing approximately 300 quintals of vermicompost annually, he struggles to meet the growing demand from eager customers.
Vermicomposting, a sustainable recycling method using earthworms to decompose organic waste, not only benefits Mir’s orchards and gardens but also inspires others in the region to embrace eco-friendly practices. In a region where agriculture is a vital economic pillar, Mir’s story stands as a testament to the power of sustainable farming, enriching both the soil and the lives of those around him.
Also Read: Vermicompost: How earthworms helped this Kashmiri farmer succeed
Aamir Ali Bhat is a Kashmir-based journalist and independent researcher whose work has been published in several reputable news outlets and publications.
Edited by: Novita Singh
