Is there a subsidy for setting up a vermicompost unit and how do I apply?

Yes, vermicompost unit support comes through more than one route, so check all of them. Organic schemes like PKVY include on farm input production which can support vermicompost as part of cluster activity, the horticulture mission and some state agriculture or rural development schemes give assistance for vermicompost units and beds, and certain centrally sponsored programmes support permanent HDPE vermibed structures. Assistance is usually a percentage of the unit cost for a standard sized structure, paid after you build and the unit is verified. To apply, go to your block or district agriculture or horticulture office, tell them the size of unit you want, and ask which current scheme covers vermicompost in your district and what the subsidy percentage and ceiling are. Keep your purchase bills for the HDPE beds or construction, because the subsidy is reimbursed against verified cost. The exact percentage, ceiling and eligible unit size change by scheme and year, so confirm the current norms with your agriculture department before you build. Many farmers also run vermicompost as a paying side business selling to organic and natural farmers nearby.