ABOUT A FRIEND OF THE EARTH

After he was done with evolution theory, Charles Darwin turned his
attention to earthworms. In 1872 - a few months before he died - he
published 'The Formation of Vegetable Mould Through the Action of Worms
with Observations on Their Habits'. The treatise demonstrated that
earthworms are adroit workers of soil. Its author was, however, a little
sceptical that his work would be taken seriously. He was right to a large
extent: enamoured with the agrochemicals modern humankind did not
think that "lowly worms" were any good.
But today many have turned back to the earthworm. Vermiculture-breeding
earthworms-is now touted as a healthy alternative. But how does one
deploy the creature's skill? Of course many in India-and elsewhere-would
rely on their traditional knowledge. However, long years of disuse means
that such knowledge rarely gets passed on to the fields.
This site is an attempt to plug this gap. Run by the Chennai-based
Ecoscience Research Foundation, it is a treasure trove of information on the
earthworm. Breeding exotic earthworm varieties, appropriate use of
Vermicompost, treating wastewater, how to use waste for
Vermicomposting-these are some areas discussed in good detail. You are
even encouraged to write back.
But who is this site meant for? For well-meaning government officials? The
sensitive non-government organisation worker? Really, one must go
beyond, to the farmer. Having the information in a few non-English Indian
languages might be a good first step towards this end.
Courtesy: Science and Environment Fortnightly - Down to Earth
Edition: Sept 30 2004