By Shamayel Hasda from Ghior, Manikganj
In Baniajuri Union of Ghior upazila, farmer Masud Biswas (45) has become an example of sustainable agriculture through the use of vermicompost. A resident of Sholkura village, Masud practices year-round organic farming, produces safe food for his family, and conserves local seed varieties, earning recognition under the “Shotobari Development Model.” His wife, Lipi Akter, supports him in farming and contributes to family income through fashion design work.
In 2024, with training and support from BARCIK, Masud began producing vermicompost. Initially provided with one cement ring and earthworms, he has since expanded production to three rings, supplying enough organic fertilizer for year-round vegetable cultivation. He is now encouraging neighboring farmers to adopt vermicompost use.
Masud Biswas said, “Vermicompost makes the soil fertile, improves biodiversity, and ensures healthy plant growth. It strengthens soil structure and maintains long-term fertility. Most importantly, it allows us to produce safe food and reduce dependence on the market.” This year, he has used vermicompost to grow spinach, bottle gourd, eggplant, chili, ginger in bags, and medicinal plants in pots.
Local farmers mentioned that excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has already degraded soil fertility and destroyed beneficial organisms. Vermicompost, they said, offers a sustainable alternative for soil health and future generations.
BARCIK continues to support farmers like Masud through training, inputs, and experience-sharing programs aimed at promoting eco-friendly agriculture and protecting biodiversity.
