:: MESSAGE FROM THE PATRON & DIRECTOR FINANCE ::

I am delighted that the Post Graduate Department of Zoology has taken the initiative for conducting a major International Workshop on “Vermitechnology in Human Welfare” with sponsorship from the Indo-US Science and Technology Forum from 4th to 7th June 2007.

I am particularly proud of initiative taken by the Zoology Department since I greatly cherish warm memories of the many years I spent in the Zoology Department as a Post Graduate student, then as a Researcher and thereafter as a Lecturer for over 7 years. This international event demonstrates the creative potential of the Researchers and Faculty of the Department who have aptly brought it into focus by organising this Workshop.

I have no doubt that the deliberations of the Workshop will bring home the critical importance of Vermitechnology in solid waste management which is emerging as a serious problem in both developed and developing countries like India. As nature’s best and most skilled engineer, the humble earthworm serves as a versatile natural bioreactor for effective recycling of organic waste and is a most practicable tool for waste land development and sustainable agriculture. It is a suitable bio-remedial measure, eco-friendly, economic and enduring to reclaim problem soils, especially acid soils.

I am sure as an off-shoot to the Workshop, the organisers will come up with a cost effective design for use of Vermitechnology by Municipal and Local Bodies for solid waste recycling.

On this memorable occasion, I extend my best wishes and greetings to all the participants and international guests and look forward to their taking back pleasant and happy memories of their association with the Workshop and their visit to the Kongunadu Arts and Science College.

C. A. VASUKI
DIRECTOR FINANCE