BEST PRACTICES IN MICROBIOLOGY

 

Best Practice 1: Jeevamrutham Preparation as a Sustainable Agricultural Approach

1. Title of the Practice

“Jeevamrutham Preparation: A Microbial-Based Organic Fertilizer for Sustainable Agriculture”

2. Objectives of the Practice

• To promote organic and sustainable farming through microbial biofertilizers.

• To enhance soil fertility and crop productivity by increasing beneficial microbial activity.

• To reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and promote eco-friendly agricultural practices.

• To educate farmers, students, and researchers about natural farming techniques.

3. The Context

Agricultural sustainability is a growing concern due to excessive chemical fertilizer use, soil degradation, and environmental pollution. Jeevamrutham, a natural biofertilizer enriched with beneficial microbes, offers an effective solution. It enhances soil microbial diversity, improves nutrient availability, and supports organic farming. The challenge lies in spreading awareness and encouraging adoption among farmers and agricultural practitioners.

4. The Practice

Jeevamrutham is a fermented microbial solution prepared using natural ingredients, which enrich the soil with beneficial microorganisms.

Preparation Method:

1. Ingredients Required:

   • Cow Dung – 5 kg (Source of beneficial microbes)

   • Cow Urine – 5 liters (Rich in nitrogen and antimicrobial properties)

   • Jaggery – 1 kg (Nutrient source for microbial growth)

   • Flour (Bengal gram or wheat flour) – 1 kg (Supports microbial proliferation)

   • Soil from the farm – 1 handful (Introduces native microbes)

   • Water – 200 liters (Medium for microbial culture growth)

2. Procedure:

   • Mix all ingredients in 200 liters of water in a large container.

   • Stir the mixture twice a day for 5-7 days for proper fermentation.

   • Keep the container in a shaded area with proper aeration.

3. Application:

   • Soil Application: Dilute 10 liters of Jeevamrutham with 100 liters of water and apply around plant roots.

   • Foliar Spray: Filter and spray on leaves for nutrient enrichment.

5. Evidence of Success

• Improved soil fertility and microbial diversity in the soil

• Increased crop yield and plant health in the garden

• Conducted workshops and training sessions for students and farmers.

6. Problems Encountered and Resources Required

• Challenges:

  • limited time of expiry.

  • Need for regular training and demonstrations for proper preparation and application.

  • Initial resistance due to conventional chemical farming practices.

• Resources Required:

  • Dedicated training programs and awareness campaigns.

  • Infrastructure support for preparation and storage.

  • Research collaboration with agricultural institutions for further refinement.

               

Best Practice 2: Haritha Haram Initiative by the Department of Microbiology

1. Title of the Practice

“Haritha Haram: A Green Initiative for Environmental Sustainability and Microbial Diversity Conservation”

2. Objectives of the Practice

• To promote afforestation and environmental sustainability on the college campus.

• To enhance biodiversity by planting trees and maintaining green spaces.

• To educate students on the role of microbes in soil fertility and ecosystem balance.

• To mitigate climate change effects and improve air quality.

• To integrate microbiological knowledge into plant growth and soil health improvement.

3. The Context

Deforestation, pollution, and climate change have severely impacted biodiversity and environmental health. To combat these issues, the Government of Telangana launched Haritha Haram, a large-scale tree-planting initiative. The Department of Microbiology of our college actively participates in this program to create a greener and healthier environment. The challenge is to ensure long-term maintenance and student involvement in sustaining the plantations. 

4. The Practice

Implementation Process:

• A tree plantation drive is organized annually with active student and faculty participation.

• The Department of Microbiology selects plant species that enhance soil microbial activity.

• Students conduct soil microbiome analysis before and after plantation to study microbial diversity.

• Jeevamrutham, a microbial biofertilizer, is prepared and applied to improve soil fertility.

• Awareness programs, seminars, and workshops on environmental microbiology are conducted.

• Continuous monitoring and maintenance of planted trees are carried out by student volunteers.

Microbiological Significance:

• Enhances soil fertility by promoting beneficial microbes.

• Increases oxygen levels and improves campus air quality.

• Promotes bioremediation by reducing soil and air pollutants.

• Strengthens student engagement in environmental conservation through scientific approaches.

5. Evidence of Success

• Increased green cover has improved air quality and campus aesthetics.

• Soil microbial analysis showed enhanced beneficial microbial activity.

• Students gained practical experience in microbial ecology and biofertilizer application.

• Collaboration with local environmental organizations for further plantation efforts.

6. Problems Encountered and Resources Required

• Challenges:

  • Ensuring post-plantation care and survival of saplings.

  • Encouraging consistent student participation beyond the initial plantation drive.

  • Limited availability of organic manure and microbial inoculants for large-scale application.

• Resources Required:

  • Financial support for acquiring saplings, manure, and biofertilizers.

  • Infrastructure for rainwater harvesting and irrigation support.

  • Faculty guidance and technical support for microbial soil analysis.