India: Mushroom farming to gain popularity in Paradip

Mushroom farming has become popular in Indian villages near Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district due to the enterprising initiative of a group of young girls and homemakers. Mushroom cultivation has become a new source of income for girls who were otherwise idling away their time. “The produce has also made its way to neighbouring port town fetching good returns.

“The process had initially begun for domestic consumption. Now many have switched over to commercial farming,” said Arabinda Dhal, a scientist at the Central Government-run Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

“It all began on an experimental basis. We had taken up the farming to meet our household needs. As vegetable prices soared, we tried to supplement it with mushroom. After the experiment turned out to be a success, we thought of larger farming,” said Kausalya Swain, president of the Mahalaxmi Women Self Help Group from Mangarajpur village.

“We were short of funds, but inspired by our sincere endeavour, a fertiliser manufacturing unit volunteered to help. We have not looked back ever since,” she said

Source: The Hindu Business Line