PRAYAGRAJ, July 24 -- Rural women in Kaushambi are reshaping local economic empowerment by transforming cow dung from government-run gaushalas into organic vermicompost. Operating through self-help groups (SHGs), the initiative has launched a branded product, 'Green Gold,' which is already producing nearly 200 quintals of vermicompost monthly. According to district officials, the project promotes sustainable livelihoods and natural farming while assisting government gaushalas in achieving financial self-reliance. Developed by the Kaushambi district administration, the programme strengthens Uttar Pradesh's cow-based bio-economy with technical support from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kaushambi. The project is expected to benefit approximately 2,500 women associated with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). Ajay Kumar, a scientist at KVK-Kaushambi, noted that the initiative has an estimated outlay of Rs.11.19 crore, with Rs.8.78 crore allocated for infrastructure, such as the construction of vermicompost pits, and Rs.2.62 crore for inputs like earthworms and waste handling. The rollout is phased, starting with two SHGs and expanding to 17 government gaushalas in the first phase. Members are trained in production, packaging, branding, and marketing. Plans are in place to bring all 76 registered government gaushalas in the district under the program, which will involve the installation of 3,287 vermicompost pits and an estimated annual production of 9,800 tonnes of organic fertilizer. The Tiranga Mahila Aajeevika SHG, which developed the 'Green Gold' brand, has opened its first retail outlet in Myohar village. Priced at Rs.10 per kg to ensure affordability for small and marginal farmers, the product has already seen a strong market response; group president Poonam reported that the outlet sold 7.5 quintals on its opening day. District magistrate Amit Pal described the project as a critical advancement in environmental conservation and women-led entrepreneurship, with plans to expand the model to reach more SHGs across the district....