Indigenous earthworms to revolutionise organic farming
Farmers in Himachal Pradesh are set to benefit from a groundbreaking shift in organic farming with the introduction of indigenous earthworms that promise faster and more efficient compost production. Unlike exotic species, these native earthworms are better adapted to the region’s extreme climatic conditions, ensuring higher survival rates and improved vermicomposting efficiency.
The initiative is being spearheaded in Sirmaur district, where a specialised culture unit has been established. This innovative technique, developed by Dr Jai Gopal, Principal Scientist at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, is now being implemented in Himachal Pradesh by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sirmaur, in Dhaulakuan.
For years, farmers in the state relied on exotic earthworms for vermicomposting, but these species often struggled to withstand fluctuating temperatures and took longer to produce compost. The delay in organic manure availability forced many farmers to resort to chemical fertilisers. The introduction of indigenous earthworms is expected to address this challenge by significantly reducing composting time and ensuring a steady supply of organic manure.
Extensive research has led to the development of an indigenous variety of earthworms capable of surviving in temperatures ranging from 2 degree C to 46 degree C. These worms decompose organic matter much faster than their exotic counterparts, enabling farmers to obtain nutrient-rich compost in a shorter period. Agricultural science centres are currently cultivating these native worms, and once the culture is sufficiently established, they will be distributed to farmers across the state to enhance organic farming practices.
At KVK Sirmaur, a demonstration unit has been set up to compare the performance of indigenous and exotic earthworms. The results so far have been encouraging — while exotic species have taken longer to produce compost, indigenous earthworms have efficiently processed organic matter within just a few days. Scientists have noted key differences between the species: indigenous worms are smaller, finer, and light red in colour, whereas exotic worms are larger, thicker, and darker. More importantly, the native species have demonstrated a superior ability to thrive in Himachal’s challenging climate, making them a more sustainable option for farmers.
Dr Pankaj Mittal, Head of KVK Sirmaur, emphasised that the centre is collaborating with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and agricultural institutes in Ludhiana to educate farmers on this technology. He highlighted that the indigenous earthworm culture, developed by Dr Jai Gopal, is being actively promoted due to its efficiency and adaptability. With farmers now able to produce high-quality compost more quickly, agriculture in Himachal Pradesh is expected to benefit from reduced dependence on chemical fertilisers and an increased shift toward natural farming practices.
The introduction of indigenous earthworms marks a major step toward sustainable agriculture in the state. By improving soil health, boosting productivity, and lowering input costs, this initiative has the potential to revolutionise farming in Himachal Pradesh. Scientists and policymakers are optimistic about its long-term impact, believing it could lead to a greener, more prosperous future for farmers and contribute to a healthier environment.
