Discussions that matter

Vermi-Culture

A never-say-die, very patient and persistent vermiculturist, Ambrose Vaz, took his turn to address the Friday Balcao session at the Goa Desc on August 23. In his detailed presentation on "Vermi-composting and Household Solutions", Vaz spoke on each and every aspect of vermiculture. Speaking from his personal experience, he let the participants know how difficult or how easy it was to raise earthworms and produce compost.

He also brought along nice, little models of the various things and gadgets needed by those interested in vermiculture. He also expressed his willingness to guide anyone interested in trying his or her hand at it. Of course, he observed that perseverance and persistence are the two most important things for its success, since one would encounter various types of problems after one has set up a vermi-composting unit. While pointing out that such compost is superior in quality to natural compost and definitely much safer than chemical fertilisers, Vaz also talked about the question of the lack of market for the compost produced.

Roland Martins of the Goa Desc pondered over the question of promoting the idea among the people, particularly at the village level. Conceding that the marketing aspect of the finished produced is certainly there, Martins said that it is also linked to our thinking towards garbage, waste, consumption and what he use in terms of fertilizers. He underlined the fact that our thinking has to change in this regard.

Ambrose Vaz can be contacted at:
Ambrose Vaz