ICAR-KVK demonstrates production technology of Oyster mushroom

Gangtok,8 December: Mushroom cultivation is most efficient and economically viable microbial technology that recycles agricultural residues into food and manure. The climatic conditions of Sikkim are congenial for the growth of mushroom during the major part of the year and under controlled environment that different species can grow throughout the year. Hence, a mushroom industry in the region holds the promise to generate sufficient employment for the unemployed rural youth and housewives. 

KVK, East Sikkim, ICAR, Ranipool organized a day long demonstration programme on Production technology of Oyster Mushroom cultivation yesterday at Lossing, East Sikkim. A total of 24 women farmers participated in the programme. The programme was organized under  the leadership of Dr. R. K. Avasthe, Joint Director, ICAR-NOFRI, Tadong, Sikkim and guided by Dr. Raghavendra Singh, Programme Coordinator (I/c), KVK East Sikkim in order to promote the purpose of providing opportunities to the farmers, rural youth and farm women for their skill upgradation through mushroom cultivation leading to self-employment.

 During the programme Dr. N. J. Singh, SMS (Plant Protection), KVK East Sikkim detailed about the stepwise production technology of Oyster mushroom. He highlighted the practices of hygienic and sanitation in mushroom cultivation and stressed on regular monitoring to be carried out carefully for early diagnosis of pests and diseases. 

Sh. Boniface Lepcha, SMS (Horticulture), KVK East Sikkim discussed about value addition and marketing of mushroom. Being short shelf life with high moisture content, preservation of fresh mushroom for a longer period is difficult. Hence, processing and value addition is another big avenue which can be more profitable and sustainable, he added.

Mrs. Deepa Sharma, President of Deepjyoti SHG, East Sikkim expressed her happiness towards the endeavour put forth by KVK East Sikkim. She further ensured more and better cooperation in carrying out other agricultural activities for the welfare of farming community.

Coordinating the programme Miss. Pallabi Phukan, SMS (Agril. Extension) KVK East Sikkim elaborated about the importance mushroom cultivation on large scale through SHG as source of additional income to make them self-sustainable. 

The farmers were demonstrated scientific organic mushroom cultivation practices during the programme. The programme ended with vote of thanks by Mrs. Durga Devi Sharma Farmers representative Lossing.