Punjab Farmers Cultivate 'White Gold' Through Mushroom Farming Training
In a significant move to diversify Punjab's agricultural landscape and enhance rural incomes, more than 90 farmers across the state have embarked on a journey to master the art of mushroom cultivation. This initiative, dubbed the "spore-tacular" training, aims to transform traditional growers into successful agri-entrepreneurs by focusing on high-value fungal crops, often referred to as "white gold" due to their lucrative potential.
Comprehensive Workshop on Mushroom Cultivation and Processing
The Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI) recently concluded an intensive four-day workshop dedicated to mushroom cultivation and processing. Supported by the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) project, the program attracted 92 farmers and farm women from various regions of Punjab to the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) campus. The primary goal was to equip participants with the skills needed to turn fungi into a sustainable, full-time fortune, moving beyond conventional farming practices.
From Spore to Spoon: A Detailed Curriculum
The training program effectively bridged the gap between laboratory science and practical field application. Experts from PAU's microbiology and food science departments provided in-depth knowledge on specific mushroom varieties suited to Punjab's climate. Farmers were educated on the intricacies of farm design and the critical distinctions between "short" and "long" methods of compost preparation, which are essential for successful cultivation.
Practical sessions were a cornerstone of the workshop, where participants engaged in hands-on activities such as spawn (seed) inoculation and compost management. To ensure year-round profitability, Dr. Poonam Sachdev led specialized sessions on processing mushrooms into value-added products like pickles, powders, and dried slices, extending their shelf life and market appeal.
Logistics and Market Readiness for Small-Scale Farmers
A key highlight of the program was the emphasis on market readiness and logistics. The workshop showcased the "Small-scale Packaging Centre" developed at PAMETI, where Ravneet Singh, deputy director (PHT), demonstrated specialized packaging techniques tailored for small and marginal farmers. These techniques are designed to help them compete effectively in retail markets, enhancing their product presentation and durability.
To provide real-world insights, the cohort visited a successful commercial mushroom unit in Malliana village, Moga. This visit allowed farmers to observe large-scale production in action, gaining practical knowledge and inspiration for their own ventures.
Financial and Strategic Support for Sustainable Growth
Recognizing that infrastructure development requires capital, the program included comprehensive sessions on subsidies and marketing strategies. Government financial support schemes available under the horticulture department were detailed, along with strategic guidance on branding and supply chain management for perishable produce. K B Singh, director of PAMETI, emphasized that mushroom farming is not merely an alternative crop but a vital tool for self-sufficiency, offering high returns on relatively small land holdings and contributing to agricultural diversification in Punjab.
