docc report spjimr

DOCC Project Report

Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development Sidhbari, Himachal Pradesh

Feasibility study on enhancing production, developing distribution and

Marketing of Vermin-compost

By Rajat Chandra (PGP-09-151)

Rajesh B (PGP-09-152)

2010

Center for Development of Corporate Citizenship S P Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai

DOCC Project Report PGDM – 2009-2011

2

Preface

There is a renewed interest in rural India, this is evident with the ever increasing number of

multinationals and institutions alike making efforts to study and improve the livelihoods of rural

dwellers. Seventy percent of the Indian population resides in the rural areas. In rural India we

find families earn their livelihood through multiple means. Generally it’s a mixed pattern of

agriculture, livestock, labor, etc. Small enterprises development (SED) and non-agriculture

activities offers an effective means of additional income especially with decreasing agricultural

productivity caused by environmental degradation, increasing population pressure in rural areas

and increasing class and gender inequalities in access to and control over land. In Himachal

Pradesh the general landholding is very small farms of the order of 1 to 2 acres in most cases.

Playing a significant role in stabilizing the economy, agriculture consumes most of the people’s

time, considering it’s their primary source of income. But the capacity of the agriculture to

absorb more labor in a productive manner is rapidly diminishing. The rural non agriculture (non-

farm) activities possess the potential for an alternative that makes an impact on the economic

situation.

An inclusive growth is promoted in getting women involved in non-farm activities as a

secondary income generation scheme to their primary/agricultural activities. Apart from many

other projects, CORD focuses on empowering the rural women by inculcating the skills of

making free economic choices at the grass root level. The non-farm activities have the potential

to bring significant development (both personal as well as financial) in the lives of these women.

We were entrusted with the task of assisting CORD in developing non agricultural activities with

finding markets and developing the distribution network of non-agricultural products. The report

outlines our study of the markets and development of distribution and production planning of

vermin-compost (an organic fertilizer).

S.P.Jain Institute of Management & Research Rajat Chandra, Rajesh B


3

Acknowledgement

It was due to the DOCC initiative of SP Jain Institute of Management & Research that we got

such a wonderful opportunity to work on a socially relevant project with a reputed NGO like

Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development (CORD). If not due to this initiative it would not

have been possible to get the kind of rural exposure that we have got by working at the grass-root

level.

Thus, we would like to thank Prof. Nirja Mattoo, DOCC coordinator and the members of the

DOCC committee for their support and guidance through the course of the project. The

guidelines they gave us were very helpful and helped us stay on track.

We would also like to thank Prof. Debasis Mallik for his guidance on how to get the best out of

the DOCC project both before and after our DOCC project.

Needless to say that the support, guidance and infrastructure we received during our stint at

CORD has helped us a lot not only in successfully completing the project but also in adding

value to ourselves. Apart from the DOCC cell and the NGO CORD, we would like to

specifically thank a couple of people for their constant support and assistance.

We express our heartfelt gratitude towards Dr. Kshama Metre, national director of CORD for her

valuable insights about uplifting the poor in the rural areas as well as how spiritual knowledge

can help in overcoming management challenges.

We are also grateful to Mr. Narender Paul, Assistant Manager CORD for his sessions about the

functioning of CORD and also about the history of the town Sidhbari.

We are also grateful to the field coordinators Mr. Rashish, Mr. Kamlesh, Miss. Sumita Roy and

Mr. Rajeev for taking out their precious time and deliberating on our strategy from time to time

to give it correct direction while we were on the field.



4

Contents Preface .......................................................................................................................................................... 2

Acknowledgement ........................................................................................................................................ 3

Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 5

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 7

Scope of the Project ...................................................................................................................................... 9

Methodology Used ...................................................................................................................................... 10

Strategy Followed ....................................................................................................................................... 11

About CORD ................................................................................................................................................ 12

SWOT Analysis – CORD with special focus on vermi‐compost production ................................................ 14

Analysis of findings ..................................................................................................................................... 16

Field Visits to farmers ............................................................................................................................. 16

Findings from field visit to farmers ......................................................................................................... 16

Field visits to Govt. Departments............................................................................................................ 17

Findings from Field visits to Govt. Departments .................................................................................... 17

Field visit to vendors of agricultural equipment and Nurseries ............................................................. 18

Findings from visits to vendors of agricultural equipment and Nurseries ............................................. 18

Field implementation of recommendations ............................................................................................... 19

Conclusions drawn from findings ............................................................................................................... 20

Motivation of farmers ............................................................................................................................. 20

Distribution channel and network .......................................................................................................... 20

Market for Vermin‐compost in Himachal Pradesh ................................................................................. 20

Economics of Vermin‐compost use ........................................................................................................ 21

Production of Vermin‐compost ............................................................................................................. 21

Recommendations ...................................................................................................................................... 22

Training Needs Assessment ........................................................................................................................ 23



5

Executive Summary

Since 1985, CORD has been focusing on rural development initiatives such as illiteracy,

social injustice, political powerlessness, economic poverty, ill health and disability.

CORD's Sidhbari Project alone has over 45,000 participating villagers and over 250,000

beneficiaries

It has been CORD’s effort to educate, train and guide rural population in the area towards

entrepreneurial activities by promoting non-farm activities like handloom and weaving etc.

through its outlets Guru Dhara and Guru Kripa. CORD has always been identifying additional

income generating activities in the region. Recent developments from the Govt. of Himachal

Pradesh and Mid-himalayan initiative have promoted the use of vermi-compost (a form of

organic fertilizer) in the region.

CORD identified this production of vermi-compost as a potential income generating activity by

farmers. Vermi-compost is produced and used by the farmers in their own farms. The farmers

possess excess production capacity in the provided structures. Raw material for the same is

readily available to farmers who own livestock.

In this study we aim to assess the feasibility of vermi-compost as a commercial product. We

identified potential farmers and studied the market in the local region identifying potential

complementors. Initial studies revealed Vermi-compost production by farmers has the potential

to augment their monthly income by 20%-25%.

Regions were identified from CORDs records based on their grading as awarded on the basis of

CORD’s internal parameters to conduct a study and establish a model pilot distribution and

marketing system; Kand and Jheol panchayat in Sidhbari region of Kangra distt. were identified.

We worked with assistance and guidance of CORD’s field agents. Field surveys, interviews and

online studies by Govt. agencies were carried out to determine the production and usage figures

(Appendix D). Govt. officials in ATMA, KVK, Agriculture Dept. and Palampur Agriculture

University were contacted to determine demand patterns and ascertain potency of vermi-compost



6

as a fertilizer and its potential applications (Appendix E). Farm equipment and seed vendors

were contacted for information on buyers and for potential distribution tie-ups. Meeting was held

with DRDA officials for potential assistance in distribution and marketing.

It was found that vermi-culture is not suitable for use as a fertilizer in commercial farming when

procured externally; Appendix F gives the economics of vermin-culture usage and production.

Vermi-culture was however, found to be suitable for use in nurseries, horticulture and

floriculture and polyhouses. Samples were collected from the farmers in Kand and Jheol

panchayats and marketing efforts were made. Requirement of vermi-culture in horticulture

shows maximum potential, however, the pilot phase could not meet the demand. Nurseries in the

area showed potential customers under the pilot project and marketing efforts succeeded in

securing orders of 2000 Kgs of vermin-compost.

An initial potential, cost structure and potential gain to farmers from an allied farm activity

requiring little to no extra effort was worked out and a value proposition was made to all

stakeholders. Farmers were motivated to start production, buyers were informed of the possible

cost reduction from local sourcing. Govt. officials at DRDA were contacted to act as an

intermediary, supporting packaging and distribution effort (NABARD may also support this

activity). A training requirement and continuation analysis was carried out with CORD.



7

Introduction

The social project was done with a reputed NGO CORD (Chinmaya Organization for Rural

Development). In 1977 H.H Swami Chinmayananda founded the Chinmaya Tapovan Trust

(CTT) in Kangra valley, Himachal Pradesh, the foothills of Himalayas. This umbrella

organization oversees the running of ashram and various spiritual, social and rural developments

works. Inspired by the message of service taught by Swami Chinmayananda, the Chinmaya

Rural Primary Health Care and Training Centre (CRPHC & TC) was launched in 1985 under the

aegis of CTT.

The increasing number of international agreements on the importance of pro-poor growth and

wealth creation must include small enterprise development (SED) which is the only source of

income and employment for increasingly large numbers of poor women and men. 70 percent of

the Indian population resides in the rural areas. Generally it’s a mixed pattern of Agriculture,

livestock, labor, etc. In rural areas, SED offers the only means of coping with decreasing

agricultural productivity caused by environmental degradation, increasing population

pressure in rural areas and increasing class and gender inequalities in access to and control

over land. Playing a significant role in stabilizing the Economy, Agriculture consumes most of

the people’s time, considering it’s their Primary source of income. But the capacity of the

agriculture to absorb more labor in a productive manner is rapidly diminishing. The rural non -

agriculture activities possess the potential for an alternative that makes an impact on the

economic situation.

Agriculture is the major contributor of income to rural dwellers. However, a potential was sensed

by CORD to develop alternate income sources for farmers involving activities which are a

byproduct of agriculture. The Govt. has been promoting use of vermin-compost as a means of

providing easy alternative to Farm Yard Manure (FYM) for use as a fertilizer. To this end the

Govt. of Himachal Pradesh in association with various bodies such as Mid-himalayan etc. has

provided farmers with the necessary equipment to enable vermin-composting.



8

Vermin-composting is an efficient way to stop soil degradation and provide free in-house

fertilizer to farmers for use in their fields. The average land holding of farmers in this area is

very small and in the order of 1-2 acres. Composting pits and vermin-culture is provided free of

cost and farmers with livestock may use the infrastructure to produce vermin-compost.

The average income of farmers in the nearby region of Jheol and Kand was found to be of the

order of Rs. 4000/- to Rs. 6000/- p.m. Our aim in this study was to establish a market for sale of

spare vermin-compost thereby aiding the monthly income of farmers by approximately 20%.



9

Scope of the Project

India is in the process of attaining higher levels of food production for matching the demand of

the growing population. Much emphasis has been laid on intensive agriculture sustainable

practices because of indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to the

deterioration of soil health, contamination of air, water and food. It is an alarming issue at global

level, especially among the agricultural and environmental scientists. Therefore, attention has

now been given to conventional system of agriculture for harmful chemicals-free and safe, food

for human consumption. Organic farming is agriculture without chemical input. India needs

organic farming as a farmers' movement. This will help to get safe food, control soil erosion,

structure and improve fertility; renewable energy unit, nutrient balance and complete organic

content build up.

Vermin-compost is a natural fertilizer the use of which, up until now is supported via

Government subsidies and provision of free vermin-culture. In this study we aim to find

entrepreneurial potential of vermin-compost to motivate small farmers for its production and

usage. Also, the study aims to find the right production quantity given the constraints of farmers

and market demand, which shall be developed during the period of the study.

We studied the following aspects of vermin-compost:

1. Vermicompost and current usage trends in India.

2. Identification of potential farmers for spear heading the entrepreneurial initiative.

3. Production forecast (Individual / Group).

4. Fertilizer usage and economic analysis.

5. Marketing channels.

6. Value proposition to the stakeholders.

7. Feasibility report.

8. Sustainability analysis/Road ahead



10

Methodology Used

Team meetings:

Prior to every field visit, meetings were held with the NFS team to discuss the strategy to be used

for the field and specific issues. In-depth discussions of the secondary activities carried out in the

villages were also held.

Internal survey:

Apart from meetings held, surveys of the NGO employees were taken to gather information

about their respective domains/activities and their thoughts and ideas on the same.

Field visits/ survey:

Field visits were made by us to gather the information about the village which included the

scale of the activities, the study of the location and the environmental factors which affect

livelihood decisions. These also included talking to the villagers and gathering their views

and opinions and suggestions as well as their daily routine. These would also include on the field

discussions with the field coordinator whenever he/she was present. The field coordinator would

brief about planning the field, questions to be asked and information to be gathered.

In addition, we also visited subject matter specialists, Govt. officials to gather inputs and insights

into the usage and economic considerations of commercial use of vermin-compost.

Market surveys were made by us in order to ascertain the usage of pesticides, fertilizers and

other organic manures and the people or organizations using them and also, to identify potential

complementors and partners.

Feedback sessions:

After every field visit there was a feedback session conducted in the presence of the project

coordinator. Issues discussed include the people interviewed, the observations made and the

problem areas gathered as well as any other relevant information.



11

Follow-up sessions / Activity days:

Follow ups were done with farmers and field workers for activities in-progress and to understand

the time involved for each activity.

Feasible and meaningful business realistic plans are discussed through contributions in

brainstorming sessions from successful entrepreneurs to the new trainees as per demand

driven in-keeping with people’s own realities through changing seasons.

Strategy Followed

Our strategy comprised of understanding the market and economics of agriculture fertilizers. We

identified all the stakeholders and sorted them as complementors, competitors, potential

roadblocks, opportunities, beneficiaries and customers. We followed a three pronged strategy:

1. Identification of potential market.

We conducted field surveys to identify usage patterns of various agriculture related

industries such as commercial agriculture growing cash crops, floriculture, horticulture

poly-houses and nurseries.

2. Development of potential market

We studied their sourcing, usage and economics of chemical and alternative fertilizers.

We tried to show them the advantage of local sourcing and potentially develop the market

for sale of locally produced vermin-compost.

We also developed channel partners in bridging the gap of the supplier (rural farmer) and

potential market as in 1 above.

3. Value proposition to farmers

We tried to show the farmers the potential for alternative income at very little to no extra

effort on their part through activities 1 and 2.



12

About CORD

In 1977 H.H Swami Chinmayananda founded the Chinmaya Tapovan Trust (CTT) in Kangra

valley, Himachal Pradesh, the foothills of Himalayas. This umbrella organization oversees the

running of ashram and various spiritual, social and rural developments works. Inspired by the

message of service taught by Swami Chinmayananda, the Chinmaya Rural Primary Health Care

and Training Centre (CRPHC&TC) was launched in 1985 under the aegis of CTT.

From 1985 to 2003, CRPHC&TC did pioneer work in various issues of comprehensive

integrated rural development and health with special focus on Women Empowerment and

Community Based Organization (CBO) development.

There was no shortage of obstacles, however. Critical healthcare issues were inextricably

intertwined with the harsh reality of rural India's poverty, illiteracy, and gender discrimination,

all of which hinted at the formidable walls of social and economic disparities to be overcome.

The Sidhbari Project soon recharged and reshaped its approach to be more holistic and

development oriented, focusing first on the empowerment of women. The Project took on, and

succeeded in developing various training programmes that tackled hard-hitting issues like

healthcare and nutrition, micro-banking and income generation, rehabilitation of specially-abled

(not "disabled") children, and natural resource management.

This has led to the formation of a national development trust known as CORD on 12 December

2003 under the aegis of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide to replicate this work countrywide under

the Chairmanship of Pujya Swami Tejomayananda (Head of Chinmaya Mission after Swami

Chinmayananda’s Samadhi in 1993) and visionary leadership of Dr. Kshama Metre being

National Director and Trustee CORD.

Today’s CORD is poised for a fuller realization of its objectives in the rural sector. Dr Kshama

Metre, a pediatrician who has dedicated her life to the Mission and worked relentlessly for the

Sidhbari Project is currently the National Director of CORD.



13

The Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development is CORD, and its holistic programmes of

self-upliftment for the rural and impoverished of India have crossed countless social, economic,

and political boundaries, resulting in exceptional service of over 600 villages in 2007 alone.

CORD's Sidhbari Project alone has over 45,000 participating villagers and over 250,000

beneficiaries.

CORD’’s Vision

To harness human resources and enable the poor to transform their lives through programmes

driven by themselves.

CORD’s Objectives

• To develop and strengthen a comprehensive, convergent, sustainable, and participatory

rural development program.

• To empower rural women and youth.

• To help reduce poverty and increase economic self-reliance through micro-credit

planning, income generation schemes, and village-level enterprise.

• To provide community-based healthcare through preventive and promotional measures,

and provide primary healthcare services from dispensaries.

• To strengthen local self-governance.

• To create environmental awareness and implement natural resource management.

• To improve education standards and facilities, promote literacy, and offer value-based

education.

• To promote and facilitate social justice.

• To empower men, women, youth, and children to uplift themselves and their

communities by invoking their latent potential.

• To network and collaborate with institutions, individuals, non-governmental

organizations, governmental agencies, and donor agencies to reinforce and promote

CORD objectives.

• To develop and conduct training programs for the fulfillment of all objectives.



14

SWOT Analysis – CORD with special focus on vermicompost production

Strengths

• Vast experience of social problems faced by people in Himachal Pradesh especially

Sidhbari area.

• Held in high regard by rural population of the area.

• International presence under the aegis of Chinmaya Mission.

• Committed and highly motivated work force under strong leadership.

• Understanding of grass root level market dynamics in the area.

• Vermi-compost has gained a sound footing with many farmers using their own produce.

• The product is accredited scientifically and has Government support.

Weaknesses

• Field agents though motivated are set in their work habits and procedures – change is not

generally accepted, however, suggestions are welcomed by leadership.

• It came to light during meetings that funding was of concern.

• Vermicompost has a huge cost of purchase if sourced from outside of one’s own

production – especially when used for commercial agriculture and cash crop farming.

• Lack of transport facilities in Kand panchayat area since it is situated in hilly region with

little to no road connectivity.

• Lack of motivation of farmers in the Jheol region towards commercial production of

vermi-compost.

Opportunities

• Recent developments in market forces have led MNC’s and other Organizations into the

rural market, of which, CORD has had vast experience.



15

• Possible tie-ups with HUL’s Shakti model, ITC e-choupal for additional income

generation for SHG’s and farmers in particular and rural population in general.

• The recent bestowing of Dr. Kshama Metre with the Padma Shri award could provide

opportunities for funding under various grants and awards – a strong possibility being

Conrad Hilton Humanitarian prize won by Aravind Eye Care system in 2010. The prize

money being $ 1.5 million (equal to six Nobel Prizes).

• Huge market availability for vermi-compost in the old Himachal region of Shimla for use

as fertilizer in orchards, where chemical fertilizer is not used.

• Govt. support for production of vermi-culture; provision of free structures and vermi-

culture as input for starting production.

Threats

• The organization though extremely secular and impartial in nature is viewed as a Hindu

organization since it is associated / an offshoot of the Chinamaya Tapovan Trust –

marketing effort needed.

• Predatory activities by other NGOs who sample the population of villages in Sidhbari

region without follow ups and active participation may lead to a situation of distrust.

• Lack of backing for commercial sale by Govt. officials who do not recommend

commercial feasibility of the product at ground level – this is based on the economics of

vermi-culture (Appendix F).

• Packaging and distribution support is vital, which is currently being offered by

DRDA/NABARD; sustainability is of concern.



16

Analysis of findings

Field Visits to farmers

Discussions were held with CORD field agents and Shri. Narendra Paul, Sr. Programme

Manager, CORD before field visits. Panchayats Kand and Jheol were selected based on the

records available at CORD on parameters of vermin-compost structure being present and

actively used and initial assessment of quality of vermin-compost being produced

Village survey was carried out in Kand panchayat and Jheol panchayat to assess the production

levels and production capacity of the farmers. Appendix D gives the details of the farmer’s

structures surveyed and their size, production capacity and own utilization of vermin-compost so

produced. Seven vermin-composting structure’s construction was studied and compared against

standard guidelines. The quality of the vermin-compost was visually studied and small samples

were collected.

Interviews with 5 farmers in panchayat Kand and 8 farmers in Jheol (Appendix D refers) were

carried out and they were assessed on the parameter that if one among them can form a fore-

runner for production and commercial sale of vermin-compost. The data was documented and

graded as A to C with A being the product suitable for commercial production and farmer being

motivated to take the risk and C being either bad product/structure or farmer being not interested.

Findings from field visit to farmers The vermin-compost being produced in Kand panchayat was in most cases made by either

leaving the redworms (Eisenia foetida or Eisenia Andrei) directly in the FYM pit or structures

were not suited for quality production. However, farmers were interviewed and found motivated

for taking the production commercial. A production in Jheol however, was done in structures

funded by the Govt. under mid-himalayan project and the structures were of much superior

quality, but, the interview of the farmers revealed that they were not very keen to take on this

activity.



17

Field visits to Govt. Departments

Govt. departments in the area distribute vermi-culture (a mix of red worms and feeding material

composed of 2 kg worms and 3 kg feeding material costing Rs. 225/- for one bag) free of cost to

farmers to facilitate production of vermin-compost in the provided composting pits. Our

assessment was that they would know and apprise us of the usage and economics of vermin-

compost.

Appendix E gives the details of offices visited. The Govt. officials apprised us of the mechanics

of fertilizer distribution which is controlled by a society (a farmer’s body with Govt. backing)

since it is controlled commodity. We evaluated the possibility of vermin-compost being stocked

and distributed by such bodies. We were also apprised of the lexicon, usage quantity and basic

technical know-how of fertilizer industry.

However, as described by various Subject Matter Specialists, the economics of vermin-compost

do not support use in commercial farming. The quantity for vermin-compost used per 1/8th of an

acre (called Karnal, a local unit of land area measurement) is 200 Kgs for cash crops and 400

Kgs for vegetables as against only 8 Kgs of IFFCO. The commercially available fertilizers sell

for Rs. 9 / Kg against Rs. 15 / Kg for vermin-compost, thus, making vermin-compost use

Rs. 1200/Karnal against Rs. 72/Karnal for chemical fertilizers.

Findings from Field visits to Govt. Departments

Use of vermin-compost as a fertilizer in commercial farming is prohibitively expensive.

Alternate uses such as kitchen gardens, nurseries, floriculture and horticulture were pointed out

by the officers. These are discussed in following sections.



18

Field visit to vendors of agricultural equipment and Nurseries

In the initial assessment during subsequent meetings, farm equipment and seed vendors were

identified as the focal point of market activity in the region for fertilizers and, potentially,

vermin-compost. It may be noted that they could also provide ground information of usage, sale

and demand cycle of fertilizers in the area and also users of other organic fertilizers.

Field visits to various stockists and distributors (Appendix E refers) were carried out. The

vendors apprised us of the usage patterns and sale points of chemical fertilizers and also directed

us to other potential buyers. The vendors were initially keen to purchase, stock and market the

product under their brand or selling it loose. However, subsequent follow ups were not very

encouraging.

The small nurseries visited had their own vermin-composting pits and were self reliant.

However, visits to two large nurseries revealed that they were sourcing vermin-compost and

organic compost from Delhi and Punjab at costs ranging between Rs. 15 to Rs. 20 per Kg. Orders

from 2 such nurseries was secured amounting to Rs. 20,000/- (400% of monthly income of 1

farmer). They expressed concern over continuity of supply and reliable packaging for

transportation.

Subsequent meetings were held with DRDA officials to discuss a model similar in nature with

TN’s implementation of packaging and distribution support from DRDA. The Officers at DRDA

agreed to provide funding support for packaging and distribution if there were 70% BPL farmers

in a production group.

Findings from visits to vendors of agricultural equipment and Nurseries

There is a market for vermin-compost locally available in Kangra; however, the buyers

expressed concern over quality and continuity of supply from the farmers. The packaging and



19

transportation responsibility was also of concern. The packaging and distribution problem was

addressed with an arrangement with DRDA.

Field implementation of recommendations

The farmers in Kand and Jheol as identified during initial visits were followed up subsequently

to spearhead commercial production of vermin-compost. Mr. Manhohar in Jheol panchayat and

Mr. Charandas in Kand panchayat were motivated to start small production batches and collect

produce. Subsequently, the farmers would form groups of 7 to 10 to collectively produce and

supply vermin-compost.

CORD would initially support the farmers in tie-ups with DRDA and NABARD for packaging

and distribution. Also, initial orders as received by us would be serviced with CORD’s support.

Thereafter, the farmers would be self reliant to supply orders directly with packaging and

distribution support of DRDA or NABARD.

Mr. Ankit and Mr. Kamlesh would follow up on the initial work and support the farmers in their

entrepreneurial effort under the guidance of Mr. Narendra Paul, Sr. Program Manager, CORD.



20

Conclusions drawn from findings

Motivation of farmers

The current production of vermin-compost by the farmers was sufficient for their own use in

their fields. The motivation level of the farmers was found to be low towards commercial

production of vermin-compost, particularly in Jheol area. The farmers expressed concern on the

scarce availability of farm labor and were reluctant to put in effort, even though minimal,

towards this activity.

The market development effort on the part of farmers is of concern. The market development

was therefore carried out by us and initial market was developed locally to motivate them.

Distribution channel and network

The farmers in Kand area live in difficult terrain and it is largely not possible for them to arrange

transport for distribution of vermin-compost. Farmers in the Jheol area are relatively better

connected by roads. Given the conditions it is not expected of them to arrange transportation for

distribution of vermin-compost.

A model for distribution of vermin-compost manufactured by SHGs in Tamil Nadu with

assistance of DRDA was evaluated for replication in Himachal Pradesh. Discussions were held

with DRDA officials and an arrangement was made for transportation and distribution of

vermin-compost with assistance of DRDA at no additional cost.

Market for Vermincompost in Himachal Pradesh

A local market for vermin-compost exists in Himachal Pradesh with nurseries, large poly-house

operators, floriculturists and horticulturists. Horticulture was found to be a major consumer of



21

the product, however, their requirement is too large (of the order of 20 to 50 tonnes per orchard

in the old Himachal region of Shimla etc.) to be serviced at this stage of commercial activity in

the region.

An initial serviceable market (of the order of 2 tonnes) was developed with nurseries in the

region with future potential for supply to others.

Economics of Vermincompost use

Vermin-compost usage for commercial agriculture was found to be unviable. The cost per acre

for use of vermin-culture sourced from market comes out to Rs. 19,200/- as against Rs. 576/- for

chemical fertilizers (Appendix F refers). The manual effort involved is also high in the

application of vermin-compost.

However, vermin-compost produced at plant site was suitable for own use in cash crop farming.

The Govt. of Himachal Pradesh therefore promotes manufacture and use of vermi-culture at farm

site by providing farmers with structures and vermin-culture as seed inputs. It was also found

suitable for application in nurseries, poly-houses, floriculture and horticulture where chemical

fertilizer usage is not an option.

Production of Vermincompost

The vermin-compost currently being produced by the farmers was, in most cases, not produced

to specifications and found to be of sub-standard quality. It is therefore recommended that follow

up with farmers should include periodical inspections.



22

Recommendations

The motivation level of the farmers was found to be low. There is a need for constant follow up

with the farmers till the initial order is serviced and monetary rewards are received by the end

beneficiary for the project to be successful.

The sale of vermin-culture in the region is possible only to nurseries as is it prohibitively

expensive for use in commercial farming if purchased from outside. There is a huge potential in

old Himachal Pradesh region of Shimla where the demand by orchards etc. is of the order of 20

to 50 tonnes. A collective effort is required by the farmers in this regard.

DRDA has agreed to support packaging and distribution, however, their requirement of 70%

BPL farmer group cannot be met in most of the regions in Kangra distt. It is therefore necessary

to find suitable partners such as NABARD for future tie ups in packaging and distribution.

Discussions between CORD field agents and officers and NABARD officials are underway to

work out a possible tie up.

Since the demand cycle is seasonal and production is in batches of 90 days each, sourcing and

stocking difficulties are anticipated. These should be reduced to a minimum with follow ups etc.

As the farmers would be working in groups, initial assistance is recommended to prevent

unwanted group behavior.

The average expected rise in the income level of farmers in Jheol and Kand region is expected to

be of the order of 20%-25% (over Rs. 4000/- p.m. as reported by Govt. officials and CORD field

agents). Therefore, the potential of entrepreneurial development of vermin-compost production is

recommended keeping the above points in mind.



23

Training Needs Assessment

As the commercial viability and market availability of vermin-compost production was found to

be attractive and a suitable market, distribution channel and network is set in place, the only

factor remains that the farmers engage themselves in this activity.

The motivation level among farmers particularly in Jheol region was found to be low. There is

therefore a need for training and development of the farmers in the following areas.

Knowledge

The farmers in the area appreciate the soil conditioning brought about by use of vermin-compost

and know the basics of application levels and usage. However, they need to be apprised of the

market availability and distribution channel thus developed. Also, the income generation of

vermin-compost needs to be reinforced for getting them motivated.

Skill

The farmers currently own and operate the structures provided by the Govt. in Jheol area.

However, the samples collected and field visits made revealed a sub-standard and ad-hoc

approach. The farmers need to be trained in producing vermin-compost according to standard

acceptable procedures.

Attitude

The farmers in the Kand area are motivated to enter into commercial production of vermin-

compost. However, the farmers of Jheol region are fixated to their regular income generation

activities for various reasons. It is required that they be motivated to the opportunity of additional

income generation by this activity.

The performance of the farmers needs to be continuously monitored in coming weeks to assess

the quality of produce and follow ups are required to negate the possibility of a sub-standard

product mitigating the market so developed.



24

The operational difficulties during production cycle needs to be identified during such follow ups

and initial assistance needs to be provided to them for ensuring sustainable market in the local

Kangra region and future expansion.

Follow ups with DRDA/NABARD officials as channel partners would reveal practical and

operational difficulties of sourcing the product from Jheol and Kand. Since the demand cycle is

seasonal and production is in batch of 90 days each, sourcing and stocking difficulties are

anticipated. The farmers need to be apprised of these difficulties and corrective action taken in

time to prevent any possible loss of motivation, market or complementor.

Follow ups with nurseries already developed for market is necessary and feedback should be

communicated to producer for keeping the product aligned to the market needs during initial

service of the received order.



25

Appendix A

Abbreviations

ADO – Agriculture development officer

ATMA – Agriculture Technology Management Agency

BPL – Below Poverty Line

CORD – Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development

CRPHC&TC – Chinmaya Rural Primary Health Care and Training Centre

DRDA – District Rural Development Agency

IFFCO – Indian Farmers fertilizer Co-op. Ltd.

KVK – Krishi Vigyan Kendra

NPK – Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium

NABARD – National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development

SHG – Self Help Group

SMS – Subject Matter Specialist

VVRP – Village Volunteer Resource Person



26

Appendix – B

References

http://www.wikipedia.org – General information

http://www.manage.gov.in – Information on various agricultural practices

http://www.drdakangra.com – DRDA Kangra website

http://ruralbazar.tn.gov.in – Model of vermi-compost packaging and distribution

http://www.icar.org – References on agricultural research

Vermicompost – an agro industry – Article by Dr. H.C. Shrivastava, ICAR



27

Appendix – C

Tools for data collection used during the DOCC project

1. Internet: a. Search and study of various different models pre-existing in the country for production

and commercial sale of vermi-compost.

b. Search for different Govt. bodies, contact persons and addresses, who may act as complementors.

2. One-to-One interaction a. To study the livelihood and income generation sources of rural dwellers

b. To motivate both buyers and farmers towards our proposition once it was found to be

rewarding

3. Survey a. To gauge the level of production.

b. To study the composting pits and its suitability for quality and commercially viable

production.

4. Stratification a. To identify potential farmers who can act as resource persons in forming production and

groups.

b. To identify producers who adhere to standards and measures in producing vermi-compost.

c. To identify farmers with spare capacity over and above own use.



28

Appendix D

Details of vermi-compost pit, production levels and utilization of vermi-compost in panchayats Kand and Jheol

Panchayat: Kand

Sl. No Name Livestock

(Nos.)

Vermicompost Structure

present (Y/N)

Size (ft)

Production level

(In Kg)

Own Utilization

(Kg) 1 Charandas 0 N - 25 252 Robbin 1 Y 8 x 3 x 3 100 253 Monu 2 N - 100 504 Sunil 2 Y 8 x 10 x 4 250 805 Galaram 1 Y 6 x 3 x 2 50 50

Note: Some 2 -3 houses with raw material not having structure and not making vermi compost Production level for 1 vermicompost cycle of 90 days

Panchayat: Jheol

Si No Name Livestock

Vermicompost Structure present (Y/N)

Size (ft)

Production level

(In Kg)

Own Utilization

(Kg)

1 Manohar 4 Y 30 x12 x 3 600 200 6 x 8 x 2 150 100

2 Lalitha Devi 4 Y 6 x8 x 2 150 1003 Sulochana Devi 2 Y 6 x 8 x 2 150 1004 Meherchand 3 Y 6 x10 x 3 200 1005 Chandra mani ? Y 6 x 8 x 2 150 1006 Sridhar ? Y 6 x8 x 2 150 1007 Jogendra Devi ? Y 6 x 8 x 2 150 100

8 Kehar Singh Bodhraj ? Y 6 x8 x 2 150 100

Note: Production level for 1 vermicompost cycle of 90 days



29

Appendix - E

Contact details of persons met during the project work

Sl. No.

Name Designation Contact No. Address Remarks

1. Shri. Sant Prakash SMS, KVK 9418017128 KVK, Kangra 2. Shri. Rakesh Rana SMS, KVK 9418069256 KVK, Kangra 3. Shri. P.N. Kannan Project Director,

CORD, TN 9381062307 - Model of vermi compost

packaging and sale 4. Dr. Rakshpal ADO, Nagrotta 01892250378 - Stocking and distribution

of fertilizers 5. Dr. Chandrakant

Sharma SMS, ATMA 9816010416 - Usage patterns of fertilizer

in Kangra, HP 6. Dr. Sood Plant Pathologist 9418063770 KVK, Kangra Usage of fertilizers 7. Mr. Rana Entrepreneur 9418478080 Fatehpur Use of vermi-compost in

poly-houses. Potential buyer

8. Dr. Dip Kumar SMS, KVK 9418687628 KVK, Kangra Economics of organic and chemical fertilizer use

9. Shri. Harish Gajju Program Director, DRDA

9805500070 DRDA, Dharamshala

Potential complementor to support package and distribution in line with TN model

10. V.K. Flower Nursery

Entrepreneur 9816031742 9816231742

Dharamshal Road, Gaggal, Kangra

Confirmed buyer

11. Fragrant Flower Nursery

Entrepreneur 9816780487 9816672069

Shahpur (Rait), Kangra

Confirmed buyer. Contact person Sanju Rajol

12. Shri. Manohar Singh

Farmer 01892275410 Jheol, Kangra Contact person forerunner in vermi compost production and sale

13. Shri. Kamlesh Field Agent CORD 14. Shri. Rashish Field Agent CORD 15. Shri. Rajeev Field Agent CORD 16. Ms. Sumi Field Agent CORD 17. M/s. Miar

Enterprises Farm equipment vendor

9418427115 Sheela Chowk, Dharamshala

Potential distributor/stockiest

18. M/s SWARG Nursery

Nursery 9418514315 Dharamshala Potential distributor/stockiest

19. M/s Agriculture Centre

Farm Equipment vendor

Nagrotta Potential distributor/stockiest

20. M/s. Him Renewable Energy

Farm equipment vendor

9418225569 Dharamshala Potential distributor/stockiest



30 S.P.Jain Institute of Management & Research Rajat Chandra, Rajesh B

Appendix F

Economics of vermin-compost usage vis-à-vis chemical fertilizers

Table 1 Quantity and Cost per Kanal

Sl. No Fertilizer type Farm type Qty per karnal (1/8 acre) in Kg

Cost per kg In Rs.

Total cost In Rs.

1 Vermi-compost Cash crop 200 12 24002 Vermi-compost Vegetables 400 12 48003 IFFCO NPK 12:32:16 Cash crop 8 9 724 IFFCO NPK 12:32:16 Vegetables 8 9 72

Table 2 Quantity and Cost per acre

Sl. No Fertilizer type Farm type Qty per acre in Kg

Cost per kg In Rs.

Total cost In Rs.

1 Vermi-compost Cash crop 1600 12 192002 Vermi-compost Vegetables 3200 12 384003 IFFCO NPK 12:32:16 Cash crop 64 9 5764 IFFCO NPK 12:32:16 Vegetables 64 9 576

Table 3 Cost of commercial vermin-compost production Sl.No. Item of expenditure Cost (Rs.)

1 Organic matter (parthenium weed) 100 Kg 40 2 Cattle dung 16 kg 16

3. Mixing of cattle dung – water with 100 kg organic matter 20

4. Filling of partially decomposed organic matter in four 3ft x 3ft x 3 ft chambers and putting 4000 earthworms 15

5 Cost of 4000 earthworms 1200 6 Processing cost of 100 kg vermicompost 40 7 Packing of 100 kg vermicompost 20

Total cost of 100 kg vermicompost 1351 Note: Study in 2006 by Dr. H.C. Srivastava, Former Principal Scientist & Head of Division in I.C.A.R. EARNINGS 1. 100 Kg vermicompost @ Rs. 12/Kg Rs. 1,200 2. 8000 earthworms @ Rs. 300/1000 Rs. 2,400 Total earning from 100 kg vermicompost Rs. 3,600

Documents prepared during the project

List of Documents

Sl. No. Name of Document

No. of Sheets

1. One page submission on work done during the project 1

2. Write-up on Enhancing knowledge, skills and attitude of middle and upper class school children through activity based learning 1

3. Write-up on Possible methods to improve and sustain school children’s attitude towards society 1

4. Project outline 4

5. Daily progress report 4

Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development Sidhbari, HP

Feasibility study on enhancing production, distribution

and Marketing of Vermi-compost Panchayat Kand – Rajesh B Panchayat Jheol – Rajat Chandra Project Scope: Vermi-compost is a natural fertilizer the use of which, up until now is supported via Government subsidies and provision of free vermi-culture. In this study we aim to find entrepreneurial potential of vermi-compost to motivate small farmers for its production and usage. Also, the study aims to find the right production quantity given the constraints of farmers and market demand. Suitable market would be developed for local consumption. Following deliverables were identified and worked upon o Identification of potential farmers

Panchayat Jheol – Mr. Manohar Panchayat Kand – Mr. Charandas Samples were collected and given at various outlets. Income generation potential was communicated and farmers were motivated for enhancing production.

o Production forecast (individual / Group)

Production cycle was studied and identified as 90 days for one structure. Production capacity in Kand and Jheol were identified and matched against partial data collected from various nurseries. Market was developed for 2000 Kgs by September’ 2010.

o Industry Analysis:-

Economics for use of vermin-compost in commercial farming was studied and matched against other chemical fertilizers. Vermi-compost when bought from an outside source was found to be un-economical against chemical fertilizer. However, use was narrowed down to large polyhouses and nurseries. Usage patterns were studied in consultation with ATMA, KVK and DRDA and compared against chemical fertilizers etc.

o Marketing Mix

Market studies for potential customers and channel partners were carried out and DRDA was identified as an agency which has agreed to help fund packaging and distribution costs for farmer’s groups consisting of 70% BPL farmers..

o Value proposition to the stakeholders

Farmers were motivated from the income generation potential of vermi-compost and nurseries etc. were appraised of the relative cost benefit from local sourcing rather than outside purchase.

Enhancing the Knowledge, Skills and Attitude of middle to upper class school children through activity based learning

Activity 1: Outdoor visits to local craftsmen such as potters, carpenters etc. or even a construction

site (one that is deemed safe)

Motivator: It has a visual and palpable appeal with children and they would be eager to watch daily

use products being made in front of their eyes.

Learning: How things are made, it’s a general knowledge enhancer, also a small one page story

may be asked to be written and evaluated as an English assignment.

Sensitization: The children get a first hand perspective to the hard working nature of some of these

jobs and the conditions in which their daily everyday use items are made. This is also

make them sensitive to treat these items carefully eg. A generally hot headed child who

would say throw a tea cup in childish anger would no longer do so because he has seen

a potter working hard to produce it.

Activity 2: Community service activities such as picking up plastic bottles and bags from a park.

Motivator: Children need to be first told the effects of plastics on the environment, then they be

asked if they like to draw a scenery sometimes with a sun rising out of 2 mountains (this

is a common scenery drawn by many children). They may then be told that the little

clean stream of water they draw or see in fairy tale shows on TV may not exist if these

plastic bags etc are incessantly used and thrown. This is a sure way to motivate them

and get a buy in for the activity.

Learning: Civic behavior, environmental science.

Sensitization: The children will be sensitized to the pressure we put on nature and may even persuade

their parents not to use plastics or dispose of them in an irresponsible manner. In

addition they would get a first hand before and after view of a garden or park. They will

also see the plight of the cleaners who get bogged down by the pollution created by

park goers.

‐Rajat Chandra

Possible methods to improve and sustain school childrens attitude towards society

Proposal 1: Involve parents during parent – teacher meetings to learn of their dwelling and create a

comprehensive dossier of the various backgrounds of students. Then ask students

(segregated by community) to help out/interview a worker or elderly in their chores and

prepare a shot story type write‐up of the same.

Outcome: The child will get sensitized to the working environment of such workers and their life

conditions. They will get to know how their daily lives are affected by such people and

how they strive to maintain our way of life.

Proposal 2: In upper class families, a household help is common. The children may be asked to be

either accompanied by them to school or bring a photograph of them and then do a

public speaking exercise on he/she affects his/her daily life.

Outcome: This is an introspective exercise which will stimulate them to think about the simple yet

important things that these people, so frequently taken for granted, do to maintain

their way of life.

Proposal 3: It is a common practice in western countries for school children to visit old age homes

etc for community service. Since, it is not a prevalent phenomena in India, they may be

taken to Orphanages and get them to make friends with some of the underprivileged

children there.

Outcome: They will get sensitized to and get humbled towards the most basic demands they put to

their parents and will understand the plight out of the underprivileged.

‐Rajesh B

Project Outline

Feasibility study

On

Enhancing production, distribution and Marketing of Vermicompost

For

Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development (CORD, Sidbhari)

March 2010

Rajat Chandra (PGP-09-151) Rajesh B (PGP-09-152)

1. About the Organization

CORD, established in December 2003 is a successor organization to Chinmaya Rural Primary Health

Care & Training Centre of Chinmaya Tapovan Trust, Sidhbari, Himachal Pradesh. The rural development

work started in 1985. It has gradually expanded to cover 550 villages in Himachal Pradesh. Starting 2005,

CORD embarked on replicating its success in Himachal Pradesh to other states in India starting with

Orissa, Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh.

CORD has well documented training manual on integrated rural development issues with training

modules, schedules, papers, presentations and professionals to impart trainings for beneficiaries and

stakeholders at various levels. Beside many volunteers from India and abroad, CORD has collaboration

with many universities and academic institutions India and abroad from where students, interns,

academicians and research persons visiting CORD to study its comprehensive integrated rural

development programme. CORD’s contribution in various areas of development is very well

acknowledged by government, many organizations and institutions from time to time.

2. Project Scope

India is in the process of attaining higher levels of food production for matching the demand of the

growing population. Much emphasis has been laid on intensive agriculture sustainable practices because

of indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides has led to the deterioration of soil health,

contamination of air, water and food. It is an alarming issue at global level, especially among the

agricultural and environmental scientists. Therefore, attention has now been given to conventional system

of agriculture for harmful chemicals-free and safe, food for human consumption. Organic farming is

agriculture without chemical input. India needs organic farming as a farmers' movement. This will help to

get safe food, control soil erosion, structure and improve fertility; renewable energy unit, nutrient balance

and complete organic content build up.

Vermi-compost is a natural fertilizer the use of which, up until now is supported via Government

subsidies and provision of free vermin-culture. In this study we aim to find entrepreneurial potential of

vermin-compost to motivate small farmers for its production and usage. Also, the study aims to find the

right production quantity given the constraints of farmers and market demand, which shall be developed

during the period of the study.

The study is divided in the following aspects.

(1) Vermicompost and current usage trends in India

Primary study involving the vermicompost market and its usage trend in the country shall be carried

out. Various models regarding production and marketing of vermicompost adopted in various states

of the country shall be studied to replicate the same if viable.

(2) Identification of potential farmers

Farmers with livestock, structure and having a positive attitude will be identified through field studies

and interviews. Farmers who already have compost pits/structures either self constructed or provided

under Mid-Himalaya scheme will form thrust group

(3) Production forecast (Individual / Group)

The production cycle and demand cycle shall be studied to identify demand patterns and production

capacity utilization shall be aligned to the same.

(4) Industry Analysis:

For the use of vermin-compost a simple environment impact appears prima facie to be insufficient for

motivating the farmers for commercial production. Therefore, an industry analysis of usage of various

fertilizers along with price points etc. shall be conducted in under the following criterions.

• Raw materials feasibility

• Demand Factors

• Substitutes/Complements

• Potential buyers

• Competitor Analysis

(5) Marketing Mix

Increase in awareness and potential benefits for usage of vermicompost shall be carried out. Market

studies for potential customers and channel partners shall be carried out to launch the product at a

local level.

(6) Value proposition to the stakeholders

The stakeholders involved would be apprised of the relative value benefit of vermin-compost vis-à-

vis chemical fertilizers. The relative selling price of organic produce relative to commercially

available farm products shall also be studied.

(7) Feasibility report

A feasibility report shall be prepared based upon the above research conducted on the commercial

viability of vermin-compost and final presentation along with going-to-market proposition shall be

laid down to all producers.

3. Time line

Description Deadline Project Scope definition 24 March 2010

Background Study of the project 26 March 2010

Field Visits to various panchayats to identify potential farmers 31 March 2010

Primary Research on the project 05 April 2010

Market demand analysis by visiting

- Various government bodies

- Farmer outlets, shops (mandis), nurseries etc.,

13 April 2010

Supply- demand gap analysis 15 April 2010

Study of existing models in the country and formulating a strategy for

Advertising, Distribution and Marketing of Vermicompost

25 April 2010

Packaging, Costing and evaluation of various price points 30 April 2010

Value proposition to stake holders and feasibility analysis 03 May 2010

Project review and Recommendations 05 May 2010

DAILY PROGRESS REPORT

‐RAJAT CHANDRA/RAJESH B

DATE AREAS WORKED ON 23‐MAR‐2010 Meeting with “Dr. Didi”, National Director and

Shri. Narendra Paul, Sr. Program Manager ‐ assignment of responsibilities. Completed assignment on sensitization of school children towards society and community. Assigned exploration of funds as responsibility.

24‐MAR‐2010 Ramnavmi. Submitted the above assignment. Searched over the internet for various funding agencies.

1. Areas funded by Bill & Melinda Gates foundation

2. Areas funded by The Global Fund

25‐MAR‐2010 Prepared brief project outline, met Shri. Narendra Paul on various possibilities.

.

Secured the write‐ups as made by Shri. Narendra Paul. Studied the CORD training manual and synopsis as provided

26‐MAR‐2010 Searched over the internet for various funding agencies. Mapped the requirements as provided by Conrad Nicholson Hilton awards. Talked at DOCC office regarding project deliverables.

27‐MAR‐2010 Received communiqué from DOCC office, funding exploration was denied as a deliverable, office communicated need for direct involvement with ground realities. Meeting with Shri. Narendra Paul and field workers involved in vermi‐compost. Shortlisted Panchayats based on CORD gradation and scheduled field visits.

28‐MAR‐2010 SUNDAY OFF 29‐MAR‐2010 Visited Kand Panchayat, documented 7 vermi‐

compost structures and their production capacities.

1

30‐MAR‐2010 Visited Jheol Panchayat, documented 9 vermi‐compost structures and their production capacities.

31‐MAR‐2010 Documentation work – Project outline 1‐APR‐2010 Documentation work – Project outline –

Submitted to DOCC office, SPJIMR, Mumbai

2‐APR‐2010 Went to Sheela Chowk – Explored vendors of Agricultural Equipment – Met Dr. Prakash Chand Katoch of Miar Enterprises and Mr. Bajindar Singh of SWARG Nursery

3‐APR‐2010 Leave Off 4‐APR‐2010 Sunday Off 5 APR‐2010 Went to Explore markets and establish demand

among regions of Mallah and Nagrota, met Mr. Chandrakant Sharma, SMS, ATMA and Mr. Rudraprakash, ADO, ATMA, Nagrota. Discussion with local shops of Agricultural Equipment (Shop name : Agricultural Centre, Nagrota)

6‐APR‐2010 Went to meet Mr. Rakesh Rana, KVK, Kangra. Discussions of usage patterns and economic analysis of vermin‐compost vis‐à‐vis IFFCO, Urea etc. with Dr. Deep Kumar, SMS and Dr. Sood, Plant Pathologist, KVK, Kangra

7‐APR‐2010 Documentation of details, write‐up of Dr. Kshama Metre for nomination under NREGA mailed to

2

NREGA officials for nomination. 8‐APR‐2010 Documentation of details and visit to net centre 9‐APR‐2010 Discussions with Him Urja Enterprises, Mr. Anjan

Kumar for possible tie‐ups with CORD for marketing of vermin‐compost

10‐APR‐2010 Discussions taken forward with Dr. Prakash Chand Katoch, Miar Enterprises for possible tie‐ups

11‐APR‐2010 Sunday Off 12‐APR‐2010 Holiday Off 13‐APR‐2010 Documentation 14‐APR‐2010

ls in line with TN

Meeting with CORD officials regarding possible roadblocks in the distribution system – advised meeting with DRDA officiamodel.

15‐APR‐2010 Meeting with DRDA officials 16‐APR‐2010 Meeting with CORD officials regarding follow up

with farmers in Jheol and Kand area

17‐APR‐2010 Discussions taken forward with SWARG Nursery e area and surrounding small nurseries in th

18‐APR‐2010 Sunday off 19‐APR‐2010 Collected samples from Kand region 20‐APR‐2010 Collected samples from Jheol region

21‐APR‐2010 Documentation 22‐APR‐2010 Packaging of collected samples and meeting with

CORD field agents

23‐APR‐2010 Follow up with Miar enterprises and SWARG nursery with samples

24‐APR‐2010 with CORD staff – collected data on the region for focusing marketing

Meetingnurseries inefforts

25‐APR‐2010 Sunday off 26‐APR‐2010 Went to explore markets and establish demand in

nurseries in Nagrotta region

3

4

27‐APR‐2010 s and establish demand in Went to explore marketnurseries in Gaggal region secured 1 order of 200 kgs from V.R. Nursery

28‐APR‐2010 Went to explore markets and establish demand in al region nurseries in Gagg

29‐APR‐2010 Meeting with CORD staff 30‐APR‐2010 Documentation 01‐MAY‐2010 demand in

Shahpur region – secured order of grant flower nursery

Went to explore markets and establish nurseries in1700 kgs from fra

02‐MAY‐2010 Sunday off 03‐MAY‐2010 Documentation 04‐MAY‐2010 ion Documentat05‐MAY‐2010 Knowledge transfer to CORD officials, release

from CORD