A 41-year-old progressive farmer from Balloke village in Barnala district, Punjab, has set a benchmark in agricultural innovation by cultivating the rare medicinal mushroom Cordyceps militaris. Using scientific farming techniques and a small controlled-environment unit spread across just 100 square feet, built at a cost of Rs 2 lakh, Rashpal Singh has transformed an unconventional idea into a profitable venture. In the past year alone, he earned nearly Rs 8 lakh from this cultivation.
Eight Years of Dedication
Rashpal has been cultivating Cordyceps militaris for the past eight years, earning Rs 6 to 8 lakh annually. He explains that the mushroom crop is harvested within four months and is grown in a controlled-temperature environment on a small area rather than in open fields. After the initial investment, the recurring cultivation cost remains relatively low.
First Farmer in Punjab
Claiming to be the first farmer in Punjab to cultivate this mushroom, Rashpal said he learned about Cordyceps cultivation during a button mushroom training programme at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Barnala, in 2017. He then studied biology textbooks and research papers to understand the scientific processes and tissue culture techniques involved. He noted that Cordyceps is generally believed to grow only in the Himalayan region. However, after extensive research, he set up his own laboratory and successfully cultivated the mushroom at temperatures between 20°C and 22°C.
Health Benefits and Market Demand
Rashpal added that people who are aware of the health benefits of this mushroom purchase it regularly. The mushroom sells for approximately Rs 1 lakh per kilogram. Most of his customers are patients, athletes, weightlifters, and other health-conscious individuals who are familiar with its benefits. Apart from supplying the product across Punjab and various other states, he also receives orders from countries such as Canada, the United States, Italy, and England.
Government Recognition
Deputy Commissioner of Barnala, Harpreet Singh, said that progressive farmer Rashpal is an inspiration for others for successfully cultivating a rare medicinal mushroom variety. By adopting scientific farming techniques and generating substantial income, he is setting an example for other farmers and demonstrating the potential of agricultural diversification.
