Holistic development of slum residents

Calcutta Rescue has been actively engaged in a waste management program focused on recycling domestic waste to produce vermicompost manure since last year. One of our primary areas of focus is the Dakhineswar Metro Colony Slum, where we aim to convert a model slum. Our efforts in slum development have commenced with the construction of handwashing stations, bathing areas, toilets, and the renovation of plastic-sheeted houses and muddy lanes through concretization.

In addition to these infrastructural developments, we have initiated an income generation project involving vermicompost production, which actively engages community women organized into Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Three community members from this slum are actively involved in the project, raising awareness among other community members about the benefits of using organic manure and managing domestic waste through recycling into compost.

Calcutta Rescue provides comprehensive training and orientation on vermicomposting procedures, and our team members effectively implement these techniques. The final vermicompost product is sold in the local market at INR 15.00 per kilogram, with local residents purchasing the product for their home gardening needs. This intervention by Calcutta Rescue has proven to be highly beneficial for overall community development, particularly in establishing a sustainable pathway for empowering community women.

With this success in mind, we are planning to expand the project to increase production rates and implement more effective marketing strategies to ensure better income generation. This expansion aims to further empower the community and promote sustainable practices in waste management and agriculture.