ICAR-KVK Churachandpur demonstrated production technology of Oyster mushroom cultivation.
Mushroom cultivation is most efficient and economically viable microbial technology that recycles agricultural residues into food and manure. The climatic conditions of Manipur 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 Churachandpur, ICAR Manipur Centre organized a day long demonstration programme on Production technology of Oyster Mushroom cultivation on June 24, 2019 under Nutri-sensitive Agricultural Resources and Innovations (NARI) project at K. Salbung village, Churachandpur. A total of 22 farmers participated the programme. The programme was conducted under the leadership of Dr. I. Meghachandra Singh, Joint Director, ICAR RC for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, patronage of Dr. Narendra Prakash, Director, ICAR for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya 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.
Gracing the occasion Dr. S. Roma Devi Senior Scientists & Head, KVK Churachandpur detailed about the NARI project that will focus on demonstrations and capacity development to promote nutrition-sensitive agriculture. Interventions on family farming, linking agriculture to nutrition, skill development among women and youth, bio-fortification of locally available food, year round dietary pattern, nutrition Smart villages, etc. will be focus under the project, she added.
Sh. Ph. Chandramani Singh, SMS (Horticulture), KVK Churachandpur 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.
During the programme Dr. N. Johnson Singh, SMS (Plant Protection), KVK Churachandpur detailed the stepwise production technology of Oyster mushroom. He highlighted the practices of hygienic and sanitation of mushroom cultivation and regular monitoring to be carried out carefully for early diagnosis of pests and diseases.
Mr. D. Nehkhomam, President, Eden Farmers Club, Churachandpur expressed his happiness towards the endeavour put forth by ICAR-KVK Churachandpur. He further ensured more and better cooperation in carrying out other agricultural activities for the welfare of farming community.
Coordinating the programme Miss. Manngaikim, Programme Assistant (Agril. Extension) KVK Churachandpur elaborated the farmers 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 Smt. Bs. Hmannihring Anal, SMS, (Agroforestry), KVK Churachandpur.
Issued by: ICAR- KVK Churachandpur
